Detention Officer

• Inmate supervision: They manage incarcerated individuals around the clock—conduct intake processing, fingerprinting, searches, safety inspections, mealtime distribution, commissary, visitor oversight, phone monitoring, and log inmate complaints .
• Security management: Officers ensure constant supervision of housing units, manage safety checks, and assist with court document processing, warrants, and transports as needed.

• Thorough training: New recruits complete a 4-week Corrections/Detention Officer Basic class at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy, followed by an intensive on-the-job field training program covering policies, inmate rights, report writing, use of force, CPR/First Aid, suicide prevention, communication, and emergency procedures.
• Professional standards: Officers internalize the agency’s core values—Professionalism, Accountability, Loyalty, Courage, Compassion, Integrity, and Dedication—while building foundational skills for advancement within detention.

• Emergency preparedness: Officers receive training in emergency response, including dealing with medical and mental health crises. Incidents like inmate assaults are responded to swiftly and professionally.
• Health & behavioral support: They work closely with on-site Behavioral Health teams to identify inmates in crisis and facilitate hundreds of mental-health interventions, ensuring coordination for after-hours needs.

• Culture & career path: Reviews highlight strong team camaraderie and advancement opportunities. Many view it as a launchpad into broader law enforcement careers.

Detention Officers here are well-trained, mission-driven professionals who maintain security, support inmate welfare, and represent the Sheriff’s Office’s values both inside and outside the facility. The role demands resilience and adaptability but offers a fulfilling career path with robust benefits and strong internal support.

Detention Officers at the Sheriff's Office have opportunities to serve in additional roles in the office.  Below are a few of the options available.  Click the links to learn more.

Coroner Transports Court Officer Honor Guard Crime Scene Response