Detention Officer

Position Overview

The Harris County Sheriff's Office is hiring Detention Officers within the Criminal Justice Command. As a Detention Officer, you are a vital team member responsible for maintaining care, custody, and control over individuals housed in the Harris County Jail. The office’s primary responsibility is to house individuals awaiting trial or commitment to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Responsibilities

• Perform inspections and cell searches
• Resolve crises such as fights, fires, and medical emergencies
• Complete reports

Career Paths

• Armed Detention Officer – responsible for transporting and securing inmates to and at hospitals or clinics.
• Detention Sergeant – responsible for supervising detention officers assigned to their area.
• Detention Lieutenant – responsible for supervising all personnel assigned to their shift.
• Detention Captain – responsible for supervising all personnel assigned to their facility.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• At least 18 years of age
• Must be a U.S. citizen (see exceptions in General Information)
• Valid driver’s license or state‑issued ID
• Vision correctable to 20/20, normal color and peripheral vision
• Normal audible range in both ears
• Pass pre‑employment testing: written exam (basic work skills) and physical agility test
• Ability to stand for extended periods, bend, stoop, kneel, and lift up to 40 lb
• Thorough background investigation (criminal background check, fingerprinting, personal interview, etc.)
• Psychological evaluation
• Drug screening
• Required documents (must be uploaded before submitting the application):
  • Birth Certificate (government‑issued) or Certificate of Naturalization
  • Social Security Card
  • Driver’s License or State‑issued ID (front and back)
  • Proof of education: High School Diploma or transcript, GED certificate, or college transcript (sealed original required later)
  • DD‑214 Military Discharge form (if applicable; otherwise, upload an additional copy of driver’s license as a placeholder)

Preferences

• Graduates of a Law Enforcement High School Program or participation in a Law Enforcement Explorers program
• Previous law enforcement or corrections work experience
• Honorable discharge from the United States Armed Forces

Pay

Paid biweekly based on 26 pay periods per year, plus benefits. Up to 12 years of credit for service as a TCOLE Certified Jailer upon hire (restrictions apply). Paid incentives are awarded annually, based on the 26 pay periods.

Schedule

Location: Downtown, Houston, TX. 40 hours per week, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Mandatory overtime as deemed necessary to fulfill operational needs. Must be a permanent legal resident and meet citizenship or veteran requirements as outlined.