Detention Center Administrator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an age of enhanced focus on security and justice, the role of a Detention Center Administrator holds significant importance.

Society progresses, and with each stride, the demand for adept administrators who can manage, improve, and secure our detention centers grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Detention Center Administrator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the internal operations of a detention center,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Detention Center Administrator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Detention Center Administrator Duties and Responsibilities

Detention Center Administrators perform a variety of tasks related to managing and running a detention center or correctional facility.

Their duties involve ensuring the safety of both staff and detainees, overseeing daily operations, and implementing policies and procedures.

The duties and responsibilities of a Detention Center Administrator include:

• Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the detention center
• Implementing and enforcing policies and procedures to ensure safety and security in the facility
• Managing and coordinating staff, including recruitment, training, and professional development
• Maintaining order within the detention center
• Working with judicial and law enforcement agencies as required
• Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations
• Preparing and managing the detention center budget
• Conducting regular inspections of the facility to ensure proper maintenance and cleanliness
• Assessing and addressing the needs and concerns of detainees
• Implementing and monitoring rehabilitation programs and services
• Handling emergencies and crises within the facility
• Documenting incidents and maintaining accurate records

 

Detention Center Administrator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a responsible Detention Center Administrator to oversee all the operations of our detention center.

The Detention Center Administrator’s responsibilities include managing staff, overseeing facility maintenance, developing operational policies, handling budget matters and ensuring the safety and security of detainees.

Our ideal candidate should be able to demonstrate leadership skills, sound judgement, high ethical standards, and excellent problem-solving abilities.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the detention center
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise detention center staff
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures
• Prepare and manage annual budget
• Ensure the safety and well-being of detainees and staff
• Coordinate with law enforcement and judicial agencies
• Enforce compliance with governmental regulations and standards
• Handle emergencies and crisis situations
• Keep accurate records and prepare reports

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a detention center administrator, jailer, or similar role
• Knowledge of legal guidelines for area security and public safety
• Understanding of budgeting and performance management
• Familiarity with the use of technology in law enforcement (e.g. CCTV surveillance)
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the job
• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• BSc degree in Criminology, Public Administration, or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Detention Center Administrator
• Work Environment: This job requires working in a detention center environment.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Corrections or the applicable governing authority.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Detention Center Administrator Do?

Detention Center Administrators are responsible for the overall management and supervision of correctional facilities, which includes the custody and care of inmates.

Their job involves developing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure the effective operation of the facility, and providing for the safety and well-being of staff and inmates.

They often manage the budget of the facility, allocate resources, and maintain compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Detention Center Administrators coordinate with other departments such as healthcare, education, and food services to provide necessary inmate services.

They also oversee staff training, hiring, and performance evaluation.

In addition, they may work with community agencies and organizations to provide rehabilitation programs for inmates.

They are also responsible for ensuring that the facility’s operations are in compliance with court orders and legal mandates.

Handling emergency situations, resolving conflicts, and addressing grievances from inmates or staff are other critical parts of their role.

Maintaining a high level of professional ethics, while balancing the enforcement of strict rules and regulations, is a key aspect of a Detention Center Administrator’s job.

 

Detention Center Administrator Qualifications and Skills

A Detention Center Administrator should possess a unique combination of administrative skills, knowledge of law enforcement practices, and interpersonal abilities.

The qualifications and skills required include:

• Extensive knowledge of the criminal justice system, law enforcement policies, and correctional facility operations.
• Experience in maintaining order and discipline in a detention center environment, including effectively managing inmate behavior and staff responses.
• Strong leadership skills to supervise, guide, and motivate detention center staff, ensuring they adhere to policies and protocols.
• Problem-solving skills to handle disputes, infractions, and emergencies within the detention center promptly and efficiently.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to liaise with staff, inmates, legal representatives, and law enforcement officials, as well as to manage any potential conflicts or issues that may arise.
• Strong organizational abilities to manage the logistics of the detention center, including staff scheduling, inmate transfers, and facility maintenance.
• Understanding and commitment to upholding the rights of inmates, ensuring that the treatment and conditions within the detention center adhere to legal and ethical standards.
• Excellent record-keeping and report writing skills to document incidents, maintain inmate records, and produce reports for oversight agencies.

 

Detention Center Administrator Experience Requirements

Detention Center Administrators are required to have a substantial amount of relevant professional experience, often at least 5 to 10 years, in the field of corrections or law enforcement.

This experience can be obtained by serving in roles such as Corrections Officer, Law Enforcement Officer, or Probation Officer.

In addition to their professional experience, most positions require the completion of a degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field, which provides theoretical and practical understanding of the criminal justice system and prison administration.

Many Detention Center Administrators have also served in positions of leadership within their previous roles, as managing a detention center requires a strong understanding of supervisory principles and practices.

This might include experience as a Shift Supervisor, Unit Manager, or Chief of Security in a correctional facility.

Experience with crisis management, conflict resolution, and inmate behavior management is also crucial for Detention Center Administrators.

As such, previous roles in emergency response or crisis management within the criminal justice system may be beneficial.

Lastly, the Detention Center Administrator must have a solid foundation in understanding and implementing state and federal regulations related to prison administration.

This could be gained by working in regulatory or policy roles within a law enforcement or correctional institution.

 

Detention Center Administrator Education and Training Requirements

A Detention Center Administrator is typically required to hold a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field.

They should have a thorough understanding of the principles and practices of jail management, incarceration laws, and the rehabilitation of detainees.

Hence, related coursework in these areas is often beneficial.

Experience is highly valued in this role, and many facilities require administrators to have previous experience in corrections or law enforcement, often at a supervisory level.

In addition to this, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in Business Administration or Criminal Justice.

This advanced education can indicate a candidate’s leadership abilities and dedication to the profession.

Certifications in corrections or jail management offered by associations like the American Correctional Association (ACA) or the American Jail Association (AJA) are also valuable.

Further, Detention Center Administrators should stay abreast of the latest developments in correctional facility management, laws, and regulations.

Hence, continuous training and education are important in this role.

Lastly, applicants are generally required to pass a background check and meet physical standards.

 

Detention Center Administrator Salary Expectations

A Detention Center Administrator can expect to earn an average salary of $73,000 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation may vary based on factors such as years of experience, the size and location of the detention facility, and the scope of responsibilities within the role.

 

Detention Center Administrator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Detention Center Administrator need?

Detention Center Administrators require strong leadership skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and a thorough understanding of correctional facility operations.

They must be adept at managing staff, budgeting, and implementing policies and procedures.

Understanding of local, state, and federal laws regarding corrections and detainees’ rights is also necessary.

 

Do Detention Center Administrators need a degree?

Most positions for Detention Center Administrators require at least a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field.

Some roles may require a master’s degree, depending on the size and complexity of the detention center.

Work experience in correctional facilities, especially in management roles, is also highly valued.

 

What should you look for in a Detention Center Administrator’s resume?

Firstly, look for relevant educational qualifications and certifications.

Prior experience in corrections or law enforcement, particularly in leadership roles, is a big plus.

Proficiencies in budget management, staff training, inmate management, and compliance with laws and regulations are crucial.

Any indication of crisis management skills or experience in reform programs would also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Detention Center Administrator?

A good Detention Center Administrator should be a strong leader with excellent decision-making skills, as they will often have to make tough choices under pressure.

They should be organized and detail-oriented to manage the complex operations of a detention center effectively.

An empathetic approach towards inmates and staff, along with a commitment to upholding human rights and promoting rehabilitation, is also crucial.

 

Is it difficult to hire Detention Center Administrators?

Hiring Detention Center Administrators can be challenging due to the specific skills and experience required for the job.

The nature of the job might also deter some candidates.

However, thorough job postings, competitive salaries, and offering opportunities for professional development can attract qualified candidates to the role.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an in-depth look at what it truly means to be a Detention Center Administrator.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing inmates.

It’s about shaping the future of correctional facilities, one decision at a time.

With our comprehensive Detention Center Administrator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every decision you make is part of a larger system.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Detention Center Administrator (Complete Guide)

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