Booking Specialist

In accordance with CO SB23-058, applicants may redact age, date of birth, or dates of attendance/graduation from third-party documents such as transcripts or certifications.

About the role

Performs various data entry and clerical support duties within the La Plata County detention facility, including entering data into computer systems, generating reports, researching warrants, accessing criminal records, balancing inmate funds, and providing general information to the public.

Responsibilities

• Exercises direct supervision over inmates in the booking room at the La Plata County Jail.
• Processes and releases inmates while maintaining accuracy of all tracked information.
• Maintains accuracy, confidentiality, and security of all records and work area.
• Reads and comprehends legal and non-legal documents, including medical instructions, commitment orders, summons, and other court documents.
• Uses interpersonal communication skills to interact with inmates, professional visitors, and the public by providing information, mediating disputes, and advising of rights and processes.
• Prepares reports using appropriate grammar, spelling, and punctuation; processes reports as required (e.g., filing, alphabetizing, labeling).
• Provides customer service in the booking area, including providing information, collecting fees and documents, and managing inmate property.
• Enters data into computer systems or databases; retrieves information; creates basic word processor documents and spreadsheets; uses email for communication.
• Performs crisis intervention, including inmate counseling, suicide prevention, recognizing abnormal behavior, and implementing appropriate intervention.
• Exercises independent judgment in classifying inmates and assessing needs of special populations.
• Demonstrates competent communication skills in court and other formal settings.
• Performs searches of objects capable of concealing contraband.
• Briefs oncoming booking staff on events impacting the shift.
• Uses radio, intercom, and telephone systems to communicate effectively with personnel and inmates.
• Conducts visual and audio surveillance of inmates for extended periods.
• Operates CCIC/NCIC computer for teletypes and record queries related to vehicles, persons, or articles of interest.
• Maintains inventory of supplies, equipment, and forms.
• Answers telephones and takes independent action as necessary.
• Assists in training new Booking Specialists.
• Establishes and maintains effective work relationships with diverse groups, including the public, inmates, staff, and other criminal justice agency personnel.
• Performs clerical tasks such as maintaining records, preparing reports, and answering telephones.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Regular and predictable attendance is required.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED.
• One to two years of progressively responsible related experience; or any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• NCIC/CCIC Certification (preferred).
• First Aid and CPR Certification (preferred).
• Typing speed of 50 net words per minute.

Skills

• Knowledge of general office procedures, policies, and practices, including basic computer and office equipment.
• Understanding of applicable state, federal, and local laws, statutes, rules, and regulations.
• Familiarity with the organization, functions, responsibilities, procedures, and rules of the Sheriff's Department.
• Proficiency in record keeping, report preparation, filing methods, and records management.
• Strong command of English usage, including spelling, grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.
• Competency in standard business arithmetic, including percentages and decimals.
• Experience with computer applications related to the work.
• Ability to use tact, discretion, initiative, and independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Skill in organizing work, setting priorities, meeting deadlines, and following up on assignments with minimal direction.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and make routine decisions in accordance with departmental rules and policies.
• Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

Benefits

La Plata County offers an extensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, life insurance, paid parental leave, and long-term disability. For a complete description, visit the Summary of Benefits.