Apr 08, 2026

Detention Officer

Job Description

Job Posting 2023-07 DETENTION OFFICER – MCDONALD CO.

The McDonald County Detention Center is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Jailer.

The purpose of this position is to supervise inmates and the maintenance or security of the county jail. This profession is reserved for those with sharp critical thinking skills, excellent judgment, a good moral character, and a degree of physical strength. This position classifies as a Medium to Very Heavy work type.

Minimum requirements for employment as a Detention Officer are:

1. Be a citizen of the United States

2. Be at least 18 years of age

3. Be free of any felony convictions or misdemeanors involving domestic violence or moral turpitude.

4. Be of good character as determined by a thorough background investigation

5. Be a high school graduate or have passed the General Education Development (GED) Test indicating high school graduation level.

6. Possess a valid driver’s license

Essential Functions:

544.240. The jailer of every county through which such prisoner may be taken is required to receive and safely keep such prisoner in the jail of which he has charge, when thereto requested by the officer or person having lawful charge of such prisoner, and to redeliver him on demand of such officer or person. Receives and processes inmates incarcerated in the jail.

1. Maintains inmate property.

2. Maintains booking records, both paper and computerized.

3. Supervises trustees.

4. Assist in Courtroom security.

5. Prisoner transports.

6. Dispense medication to inmates according to doctor’s orders, maintains records of such.

7. Can be trained to operate BAC machine when needed.

8. Will be trained to operate computerized fingerprint machine when needed.

9. Collects DNA samples as required by law.

10. Issue and maintain inventory of jail supplies, clothing, and hygiene supplies issued to inmates.

11. Supervise preparation of inmate meals, distribute meals.

Physical/Mental Demands:

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, kneeling, running or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, and uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work is typically performed in a jail or courtroom. The employee may be exposed to noise, contagious or infectious diseases, or irritating chemicals.

Possible exposure to environmental hazards or disease associated with public working conditions. May be subject to extreme weather conditions, both Heat & Cold.

The incumbent must occasionally lift and/or move subjects up to 150 pounds.

Compensation

Starting pay for non-P.O.S.T certified applicants: $17.00/hr.

  • -- Paid Monthly.

Benefits:

Compensation will be based on experience and once position converts to full time status, it includes health and retirement benefits.

Work Location: McDonald County Sheriff’s Office 300 E. 7th Street Pineville, Mo 64856

PH: 417-223-4319

Interested Parties/How to Apply:

McDonald County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants can apply at the McDonald County Sheriff Office.

If you have questions, please contact Lt. Becky Ernest by phone 417-223-4319 or email b.ernest@mcdonaldcoutysheriff.com

Website: http://www.mcdonaldcountysheriff.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Shift availability:

  • Night Shift (Preferred)
  • Overnight Shift (Preferred)
  • Day Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

ID

9b1ee51e1ae10efb0199f1a4de2963d8