We are accepting applications for the Wadena County Sheriff's Office for two (2) full-time position and creating an eligibility list that will expire in one year on July 7, 2027. All applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on August 2nd, 2026.
Applicants must be able to work 12 hour rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Applicants need not hold a college degree. Wadena County provides on the job training.
The Jailer/Dispatcher position is responsible to maintain the safety and security of employees and inmates of the Wadena County Jail. Receives emergency and non-emergency requests from the public. Provide assistance and dispatch services for Law Enforcement, Fire and emergency medical services for the County.
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Receives and responds to emergency and non-emergency calls including 911 calls from the public, dispatchers from other agencies and law enforcement agencies.
- Utilize telephone, radio systems and computer aided dispatch (CAD) systems.
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Processes, evaluates, and prioritizes calls and dispatches appropriate response in a timely manner.
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Maintains status and locations of Sheriff’s Office and other agency units.
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Knowledge of Wadena County geography, street and highway system, and location of significant areas of attention.
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Provides public point of contact for those coming directly to the Wadena County Sheriff's Office wanting to see officers, report crimes, and seeking help and referrals for a wide variety of situations.
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Creates and maintains various law enforcement reports, statistical records and databases.
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Monitors interior and exterior areas of jail and Courthouse via camera systems.
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Creates reports in the CAD system.
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Maintains accurate record entries for all calls for service.
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Accesses and enters data in state and national databases.
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Creates and maintains activity logs.
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Prepares administrative paperwork for data entry including warrants and protection orders.
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Operates visitation systems.
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Functions as field training officer (FTO) for new Dispatchers.
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Performs computer data entry.
Jailer Duties and Responsibilities:
- Responsible for the control, safety, observation and supervision of inmates.
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Ensure the maintenance of security, operational rules, and policies of the Jail.
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Performs inmate wellness checks.
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Receive arrestees that are brought to the jail by Law Enforcement Agencies.
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Manages booking and release processes for arriving and leaving inmates.
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Manages the flow of nurses, programs, attorney visits, probation officer meetings, law enforcement, clergy etc.
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Manages jail cleaning coordinating inmate and jail workers.
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Maintains order in the jail, with the authority to discipline inmates, when needed.
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Intervenes in emergency situations such as fights, suicide attempts and medical emergencies.
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Administers prescription and non-prescription medications to inmates.
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Function as a field training officer (FTO) for new Jailers.
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Provides daily care and communications with inmates.
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Maintains knowledge of relevant department policies and procedures.
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Attends trainings and continuing education as required.
While these are the primary focus of the position, we believe strongly in teamwork and employees will be called upon to perform a variety of duties as part of their role with the County.
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Basic knowledge of law enforcement terminology and procedures.
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Ability to effectively use a computer and various software programs.
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Ability to handle critical situations in a calm manner.
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Ability to handle confidential information and follow data practices requirements.
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Ability to maintain effective public relations and deal with hostile or aggressive persons.
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Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
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Ability to work assigned schedule in a 24/7 work environment.
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Ability to work under limited supervision with general autonomy in determining how objectives are achieved; supervisors generally set operating benchmarks, goals and objectives.
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Ability to apply a variety of procedures, policies and/or precedents and moderate analytical ability in adapting standard methods to fit facts and conditions, using generally prescribed procedures.
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Ability to maintain effective working relationships with a wide variety of internal and external contacts to achieve organizational objectives.
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Requires high school degree or equivalent.
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BCA Single Certification
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First Aid/CPR/Medication Administration
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Jail Training
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Portals Training/TAC training
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Defensive Tactics
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Taser Training
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Office equipment and technology
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Jail and Dispatch equipment
This job typically requires: sitting, standing, walking, feeling, manual dexterity, driving, grasping, talking, hearing, typing, and seeing. There is exposure to computer keyboards and video screens. This position is moderate duty and may require the exertion up to 60 pounds of force.
The physical demands described here are representative to those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work is performed in office and jail environments. This position may be exposed to blood borne pathogens and uncooperative, aggressive or combative persons.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative to those an employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
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Develop, maintain a thorough working knowledge of, and comply with all departmental and applicable County policies and procedures.
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Demonstration by personal example the spirit of service, excellence, and integrity expected from all staff.
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Develop respectful and cooperative working relationships with co-workers, including willing assistance to newer staff so job responsibilities can be performed with confidence as quickly as possible.
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Confer regularly with and keep immediate supervisor informed of all important matters which pertain to the applicable job functions and responsibilities.
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Represent Wadena County in a professional manner to the public, outside contacts and constituencies.
Background Investigation
All employment offers are contingent upon the applicant passing a background investigation which may include but are not limited to gathering information from the following sources: Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, other law enforcement agencies, court documents, educational institutions, previous employers, Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services, military records, Immigration and Naturalization Services, and known associates of the applicant.
Criminal convictions are not an automatic bar to employment. Each case is considered on its individual merits and the type of work sought. Making false statements or withholding information during the application or background investigation process will cause you to be barred from employment or removed from employment.
Wadena County is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer.
