Jail Classification Caseworker

Overview
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:
Professional evaluation and casework within the jail setting including classifying inmates after first appearance and performing appropriate reclassifications and housing recommendations. Caseworkers monitor inmates' mental and physical health and other needs as well as status changes for housing and release purposes.
Caseworkers interact with inmates face to face on a daily basis, monitor inmate gain time, and monitor the inmate grievance system among other duties and special projects related to inmate population. Caseworkers are responsible for various types of casework including working with outside agencies, crisis intervention, and conflict tracking and resolution.
An employee assigned to this classification reports to the Jail Classification Supervisor. Performance is evaluated through observation, results obtained, appropriate employee performance appraisals, and oral/written reports.
Responsibilities
EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES*:

• Manage jail population through daily classification, reclassification, monitoring gain time, and making necessary referrals/recommendations to programs in the community and within the jail
• Manage population through inmate case management
• Conduct inmate classification interviews and assess reclassification needs
• Conduct conflict resolution and crisis management/intervention for inmates
• Process and respond to inmate requests and monitor inmate grievance system
• Recruit and screen for Trusty and other programs in the jail
• Maintain inmate Segregation Log
• May be required to assist in facilitating program classes
• Act as a liaison between the inmate and jail staff, family, community, courts, and other agencies
• Refer to appropriate resources based on the inmates' needs and inquiries such as mental health providers, substance abuse groups, and government agencies
• Participate in community meetings and judicial hearings as needed

*This section of the job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of duties and responsibilities of the position. The omission of specific job functions or tasks does not absolve an employee from being required to perform additional tasks incidental to or inherent to the position.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Varying work hours between 7am and 8pm
• Must work weekends and holidays as required

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Noise level is usually high. Caseworkers will have direct contact with inmates approximately 75% of the time.

QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• [ ] High School/GED
• [ ] Associate's Degree [ ] Preferred
• [X] Bachelor's Degree [ ] Preferred

• Preferred Major(s): Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, Criminal Justice, Human Services or other related field.

Qualifications
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

• One (1) or more years of experience in corrections, social services, or case management preferred.
• Four (4) or more years of related experience may substitute for the Bachelor's degree requirement.

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSING:

• None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Sit/stand for moderate to long periods
• See and hear at a normal range
• Speak, read, write, and understand English fluently
• Ambulate independently
• Lift/carry 15 pounds or less
• Push/pull light loads
• Bend and squat
• Manual dexterity

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Considerable knowledge of current procedures, principles, and practices of inmate evaluation and classification in the corrections/detention setting.
• Ability to effectively evaluate and counsel a variety of inmates.
• Knowledge of conflict resolution and crisis management techniques, suicide risk assessment, and basic mental health issues.
• Ability to communicate effectively through written and oral means.
• Basic computer knowledge including word processing, database, and spreadsheet usage.
• Ability to prioritize tasks quickly and multi-task continuously.
• Proficient typing skills.
• Ability to keep records and maintain files.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationship with provider agencies, other county departments, ACSO management, and employees.