Detention Facility Classification Specialist chez Leon County Sheriff's Office, FL

About the Department

This position involves professional evaluation and casework within a detention facility, including the classification of inmates following first appearance, as well as conducting reclassifications and housing recommendations as needed. Classification Specialists monitor inmates’ mental and physical health, behavioral needs, and custody status to ensure appropriate housing and release decisions.

Classification Specialists interact face-to-face with inmates daily, track inmate gain time, and oversee the inmate grievance process. Additional responsibilities include completing various casework assignments, coordinating with outside agencies, and providing crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and support for special projects related to inmate management.

This is an advanced technical and clerical position responsible for supporting the Classification Unit. The Jail Classification Specialist maintains detailed records, provides administrative assistance, and contributes to the effective operation of classification processes. The role requires sound judgment, strong initiative, attention to detail, and excellent follow-up skills.

Employees in this classification report to the Classification Sergeant. Performance is evaluated through direct observation, work results, written and oral reports, and formal performance appraisals.

Work is performed in an office environment within a detention facility. Employees will have contact with inmates during the normal workday. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; however, flexibility is required to meet departmental needs.

Position Duties

1. Manage detention population through daily classification, reclassification, monitoring gain time, and making necessary referrals/recommendations to programs in the community and within the detention facility.
2. Manage population through inmate case management.    
3. Conduct inmate classification interviews and assess reclassification needs.   
4. Conduct conflict resolution and crisis management/intervention for inmates.    
5. Process and respond to inmate requests and monitor inmate grievance system.  
6. Recruit and screen for Trusty and other programs in the detention facility.
7. Maintain inmate Segregation Log.       
8. May be required to assist in facilitating program classes.       
9. Act as a liaison between the inmate and detention staff, family, community, courts, and other agencies.           
10. Refer to appropriate resources based on the inmates’ needs and inquiries such as mental health providers, substance abuse groups, and government agencies. 
11. Participate in community meetings and judicial hearings as needed.
12. Reviews arrest documents to determine if special factors exist (co-defendants, high-risk charges, juvenile arrests, etc.). 
13. Entry of pertinent information into the Jail Management System.         
14. Generates, distributes and coordinates work detail schedules and schedule changes based on daily needs using established software.  
15. Reviews and disseminates various lists: (inmate programs, confinement etc.).     
16. Computes inmate Gain time pursuant to Florida Statutes and departmental policies utilizing the Jail Management System and Microsoft Excel software.           
17. Coordinates and manages the formal inmate disciplinary process.                   
18. Sort, review, route and answer inmate request forms.                                     
19. Assist the public via telephone and in person. 
20. Schedule appointments and relay information to proper departments.    
21. Regular, dependable and punctual attendance is an essential function of this job.    
22. Review all sentenced inmates records to determine housing and work status. Review medical work status, interview inmates, and provide documentation for inmate workers’ responsibilities to inmates for available job assignments.    
23. Maintain and update the trustee work list with the on-duty supervisor and deputies, maintenance, garage, and the kitchen. 
24. Run a daily report of all inmates to ensure the initial classification and reclassification screening is done in a timely manner. 
25. File reviews must be completed within every 30 days.                               
26. Answers inmate/offender/detainee questions in a professional manner, referring unanswered questions to the appropriate personnel pursuant to FMJS requirements and agency policies.              
27. Regular, dependable and punctual attendance is an essential function of this job.
28. Knowledge of conflict resolution and crisis management techniques, suicide risk assessment, and basic mental health issues.
29. Knowledge of the court system in terms of procedures, requirements, regulations, and inmate/suspect rights about the legal system and inmate incarceration.      
30. Computer knowledge including word processing, database, and spreadsheet usage 
31. Ability to simultaneously perform multiple communications tasks to standard under both stressful and nonstress conditions.
32. Ability to express ideas and effectively communicate information to citizens and colleagues as well as the ability to process verbal information, physical cues, and body language to effectively listen to individuals.               
33. Ability to be aware and alert to the surrounding conditions and situations and the ability to adapt to unexpected changes in such conditions and situations too successfully and safely complete the task at hand.
34. Ability to effectively evaluate and counsel a variety of inmates.          
35. Ability to communicate effectively through written and oral means.                                                     
36. Ability to prioritize tasks quickly and multi-task continuously. 
37. Ability to keep records and maintain files.         
38. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationship with provider agencies, other county departments, ACSO management, and employees.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree or higher from an accredited college or university required.  Classification experience will substitute on a year-to-year basis; AND
• Minimum of (2) years administrative experience including a minimum of (1) year experience in a court or law enforcement setting required; OR
• Equivalent combination of education and/or experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the position; AND
• Ability to use Microsoft office programs proficiency in Excel is preferred.
• NCIC/FCIC certification preferred.

Other Qualifications

• Duties are performed in office environment. 
• Duties often performed sedentary at desk for long periods of time with limited walking. 
• Must be able to lift, push, carry or pull a minimum of 25 lbs. independently.
• Work is generally performed during normal business hours although the incumbent may be required to work any schedule that fulfills the needs of the position. 
• Extensive use of desktop computers is required.