Corrections Officer (Canine Handler/Detection/Div1/East & Div2/Central) #02039

Duties

Provides daily canine support to the unit's security operations.

Provides security over adult inmates at the institution and while in transport; supervises the daily activities of inmates while observing and recording their behavior and movement to ensure their safe and secure confinement.

Prepares reports and maintains logs.

Provides escape prevention duties including supervising inmate movement and activities.

Reports on inmate conduct and when necessary, testifies in court or at hearings.

Continually maintains and ensures proper readiness of assigned security equipment.

In addition to working security post, earns and maintains patrol handler canine certifications; keeps assigned canine in a state of readiness which includes training, exercising and feeding.

Conducts patrols in secure perimeter.

Reporting to the Canine Detection Unit, these positions provide K-9 detection services to VADOC locations throughout Division 1/ Eastern Region (eastern half of the state) and Division 2/Central Region (central half of the state).

Requirements

Considerable continuous service as a DCJS certified Corrections Officer.

Working knowledge of Virginia Department of Corrections practices, policies, and procedures.

Demonstrated ability to train and handle canines.

Demonstrated skill as a canine handler (training, care and utilization).

Working knowledge of the criminal justice system, basic investigatory techniques, and standard methods of evidence gathering, seizure, and control.

Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend workplace policies and procedures and to prepare workplace reports and documentation using a computer.

The selected candidate must have the ability (physical) and willingness to work all shifts/posts as assigned.

Ability to organize, plan, schedule, and implement detailed and complex assignments.

Ability to work effectively with the general public, staff, inmates and other law enforcement agencies.

Demonstrated ability to maintain composure in stressful situations, make responsible, honest, fair impartial, ethical and consistent decisions.

Qualifications

Considerable experience working as a patrol canine handler.

Formal experience or education on training and/or caring for canines.

Benefits

Background Investigation Requirements: All applicants are subject to a background investigation. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks based on the position.

Drug Testing Requirements: Applicants applying to a designated safety sensitive position are subject to a pre-employment drug screen. Marijuana use is prohibited for positions that require possession of a firearm or a Commercial Driver’s License in the performance of official duties such as Corrections Officers, Probation Officers, Tractor Trailer Drivers and others.