Walton County Sheriff's Office - Classification Specialist

Position Summary 

The Classification Specialist performs responsible and technical work related to the assessment, classification, and reclassification of inmates within the Walton County Jail. The position requires independent judgment in determining appropriate custody levels and housing placements while ensuring compliance with agency policies, state regulations, and security considerations. The incumbent evaluates inmate backgrounds, criminal histories, and behavior to support decisions regarding housing, work, and program assignments.

This role involves extensive collaboration with Inmate Records, Medical, Programs, and security personnel to promote safety, fairness, and effective inmate management. The Classification Specialist maintains accurate and up-to-date records within the jail management system, prepares reports, and ensures data integrity.

Qualifications 

• Level I:
  • Education – High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver License   
• Level II:
  •  Education – High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience – Two (2) years’ experience in a related field
    • Or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required competencies to perform the job.
  • Valid Driver License

Essential Job Functions 

• This list of functions, duties, responsibilities, skills, and physical abilities is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employer reserves the right to assign additional functions and responsibilities as deemed necessary.
• Conduct inmate classification and reclassification interviews to determine appropriate custody levels, housing assignments, and program eligibility in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Review, analyze, and interpret criminal histories, case files, behavioral records, and other relevant data from NCIC/FCIC and other sources to make informed classification decisions.
• Evaluate and document inmate progress, behavior, and adjustment to custody, making recommendations for work assignments, program participation, or changes in classification status.
• Maintain and update inmate information in the jail management system to ensure the accuracy of housing, custody, and program records.
• Prepare scheduled and unscheduled reports, classification summaries, and progress evaluations.
• Conduct file audits and ensure that inmate records, logs, and related documentation are complete, accurate, and compliant with agency standards.
• Respond promptly and professionally to inmate requests, grievances, and correspondence, maintaining clear and consistent communication.
• Collaborate with Inmate Records, Medical, Programs, and security personnel to ensure proper inmate management and placement decisions.
• Observe inmates in various settings, including housing, work, and program areas, to assess behavior and identify potential risks or needs.
• Counsel inmates on available programs, custody requirements, and behavioral expectations to encourage compliance and rehabilitation.
• Apply applicable laws, rules, and agency procedures when assessing inmate classification and housing assignments.
• Plan, organize, and prioritize workload to manage multiple cases and competing deadlines effectively.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, with inmates, staff, and outside agencies.
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive information.
• Use computers and related office equipment, including jail management and database systems, to perform daily tasks.
• Work effectively under stressful conditions and manage interactions with difficult or uncooperative individuals in a correctional environment.
• Exhibit professionalism, sound judgment, and impartiality in all inmate and staff interactions.
• Participate in required training sessions and cross-train within other functional areas to ensure operational continuity.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Classification Manager or supervisory personnel.

Required Skills 

• Proficient in NCIC/FCIC database use and interpretation of criminal histories.
• Knowledge of inmate classification systems, correctional procedures, and applicable laws.
• Ability to analyze information, assess inmate behavior, and make sound decisions.
• Proficient in computer systems, recordkeeping, and report preparation.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for interacting with inmates and staff.
• Ability to remain objective, professional, and impartial under all circumstances.
• Ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities.
• Skilled in identifying inmate needs and referring them to appropriate treatment or program services.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while exercising sound judgment.

Key Competencies 

• Integrity and Ethics: Adheres to agency values and confidentiality requirements.
• Analytical Thinking: Evaluates data and behavior to make accurate, evidence-based decisions.
• Communication: Clearly conveys information verbally and in writing.
• Interpersonal Skills: Builds professional rapport and maintains composure in challenging situations.
• Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in records, reports, and data management.
• Decision-Making: Exercises sound judgment in evaluating classification and housing decisions.
• Adaptability: Functions effectively in dynamic correctional environments.
• Teamwork: Collaborates effectively with multiple departments and disciplines.

Physical Requirements 

• Sit up to 6 hours per day.
• Stand up to 1 hour per day.
• Walk up to 2 hours per day.
• Frequently lift up to 10 lbs; occasionally lift up to 20 lbs.
• Frequently bend, reach, or twist.
• Must possess normal or corrected vision and hearing to perform required tasks.
• Ability to perceive speech and other sounds at normal conversational levels.
• Work is primarily performed in a secure correctional facility environment.
• May involve occasional exposure to hostile or disruptive behavior.
• Requires adherence to all safety and security protocols.

The Walton County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Walton County Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Veterans are encouraged to apply. Pursuant to applicable state and federal law, preference and priority shall be given to certain service members and veterans (including spouses and family members of such service members and veterans), and certain service members may be eligible for a waiver of post-secondary educational requirements as provided in Chapter 295, Florida Statutes.