Purpose of Job
The purpose of this classification is to maintain safety, order and discipline within a secure facility housing youth offenders.
Essential Functions
The Corrections Officer is responsible for the following essential functions:
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Monitor and supervise youth during daily activities, including meals, recreation, education, and personal time.
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Ensure juveniles adhere to the Juvenile Service Center rules and guidelines.
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Complete all required reports and documentation, such as Department of Children's Services (DCS) reports, daily shift reports, logbook entries, and incident reports.
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Conduct facility inspections and security checks to ensure a safe and contraband-free environment.
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Intervene in conflicts or behavioral incidents, using approved deescalation techniques.
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Escort youth to and from various locations, including court appointments and medical evaluations.
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Support rehabilitative programs by encouraging participation in counseling, education, and structured activities.
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Conduct intake and release procedures, including searches, documentation, and orientation of new detainees.
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Observe and report behavioral and emotional changes to the appropriate staff for follow-up.
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Administer basic first aid or request medical assistance when necessary.
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Complete duties as a first responder when addressing a PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) incident.
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Respond to subpoenas and court orders.
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Maintain confidentiality and adhere to legal and ethical standards when handling sensitive information.
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Participate in training and professional development to maintain certifications and stay current with best practices.
Additional Job Functions
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Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local, regional or central office supervisors, as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Mayor’s Office
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Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours
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Perform other duties as required
Minimum Training & Qualifications
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High School diploma or GED required.
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Must be at least 20 years old; this is an entry-level position.
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Must possess and maintain a valid TN state ID.
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Must complete and maintain Correctional Officer Training Academy certification.
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Must complete and maintain valid CPR/First Aid certification
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Ability to work varying hours, shifts and schedules, including weekends and holidays.
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Must be able to work overtime hours as necessary.
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Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered for employment into the position
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Must be able to successfully pass a background check.
Specialized Knowledge
Competencies
- Ability to work in a position of moderate complexity
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Basic understanding of PCs, tablets, smartphones and other electronic devices
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Basic understanding of Microsoft Office suite of products
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Ability to focus and demonstrate attention to detail
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Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team
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Strong verbal and written communication skills
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Strong organizational and time management skills
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Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
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Strong negotiation skills
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Strong interpersonal skills
Physical Requirements
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This position requires the ability to engage in frequent, moderate physical activity and occasional, very heavy activity.
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Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
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Ability to traverse the facility at any given time in the event of an emergency.
Occupational Hazards
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Inherent risk of bodily harm/injury or exposure to biological hazards
Knox County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Knox County Government may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : JUVENILE SERVICES
Posting Start : 06/01/2026
Posting End : 07/20/2026
MINIMUM HOURLY RATE: $24.55
