Correctional Sergeant/Canine Handler

This is the first line supervisor of canine handling work.  An incumbent serves as a lead worker during K-9 proficiency training and supervising staff during CERT Training, shakedowns, escapes, and escape recovery. An incumbent at this level is responsible for supervising and participating in the discipline and security of an assigned post inside and/or outside a secure facility. 

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Maintains institutional security, discipline and order.
   
• Escorts visitors to and from appropriate security units.
   
• Monitors entrances and exits of institution with the exception of main gatehouse.  Insures visitors, contractors and vendors enter and exit institution safely.
   
• Trains and provides routine care for K-9 including feeding, grooming, kennel maintenance and maintains supply inventory and equipment.
   
• Maintains logs and prepares reports.
   
• Assists other security sections within institution during riots, shakedowns, crowd control, contraband searches, inmate movement, apprehension of escapees, and other activities as needed.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Correctional Sergeant/Canine Handler
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Two years’ experience as a Correctional Corporal/Canine Handler.
2. Knowledge of staff supervision acquired through course work, academic training, training provided through an employer, or performing as a lead worker overseeing the work of others; OR supervising staff which may include planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the work of others; OR supervising through subordinate supervisors a group of professional, technical, and clerical employees.
3. Possession of a valid Driver’s License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Applicants may only apply if they are current permanent employees of the State of Delaware Dept. of Correction in a position covered by the Merit System who have completed their initial probationary period.

Incumbents working four or more hours of work between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. the following day will receive 5% shift differential pay.

Employees in a Correctional Officer (CO) series position will be eligible to retire under the provisions of HB363 if, at the time of retirement, they have completed twenty-five (25) years of pension creditable State service, and with at least twenty (20) of those years of pension creditable service as a CO series classified position.

Appointees other than in-line promotions must successfully complete a Department training course in security and related areas prior to assignment.  This course is administered by the Department of Correction at the Employment Development Center.  Coursework includes physical, classroom and hands-on training.  Instruction is provided in the areas of inmate supervision, defensive tactics, riot control, weapons, report writing and emergency medical training.

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.