Work Release Specialist

Description
The incumbent makes sure all Work Release participants are aware of the rules and expectations of the program. Coordinates employment opportunities with local business leaders and other employers in the community who are willing to employ Work Release inmates.

Essential Functions
The requirements for this position include, but are not limited to, those outlined below. All job functions, education and experience, general knowledge and abilities, and physical requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of the job. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise. It is the employer’s discretion to add or change the duties or requirements of this position at any time.

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Processes and orients newly approved Work Release inmates and confirms completion of orientation, prior to release into the community for the purposes of job seeking or employment;

• Confirms eligibility for assignment to Work Release, verifies court orders, arranges/performs urine drug testing and coordinates moves to the Community Corrections Center;
• Prepares and maintains Work Release inmate files and program acknowledgement forms;
• Provides program status updates, and reports on employment statistics;
• Coordinates fee collection with the canteen clerk and the Division of Child Support Enforcement;
• Coordinates, documents, and disseminates court-ordered and/or other authorized deductions to work release inmate financial accounts;
• Recruits and collaborates with employers in the community for job placement of inmates;
• Educates employers regarding the Work Release requirements and rules and obtains required documents and initial work schedules;
• Inputs inmate data, status, employment, and work schedules into the Offender Management System (OMS);
• Communicates with employers about inmate work performance and collaborates with the Home Electronic Monitoring (HEM) Officer and Outside Program Officer;
• Verifies and documents inmates that are authorized to operate a motor vehicle;
• Provides participants with guidance and assists with problem solving and referral to outside resources as needed; and,
• Utilizes community employment and social service resources and coordinates services if needed.

Typical Qualifications
Education
High school diploma or general education diploma (GED) required. An associate degree in criminal justice, sociology, or similar field preferred.

Experience
Three (3) years' experience administering work release or similar inmate programs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
The ability to work successfully independent of constant supervision and the ability to carry out complex instructions under pressure is essential. The incumbent must be skilled at maintaining good relations with the public and employers while enforcing program rules and regulations. The ability to communicate orally and in writing is critical. A thorough knowledge of all Work Release program rules and regulations must be maintained.

Supplemental Information
Equipment Operated
Computer terminal, Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) terminal, keyboard, Offender Management System (OMS), copier, shredder, telephone, facsimile, calculator, and motor vehicle. The incumbent must maintain a telephone for emergency contact.

Work involves some degree of risk to personal safety in an inherently stressful environment. This is light to medium work that requires standing and walking for short periods of time, picking up and moving boxes as needed (10lbs to 25lbs), pushing, pulling, grasping, bending, stooping, reaching, and crouching as needed. Effective vocal communication, hearing and vision is required. Regular exposure to pre-trial and post-conviction inmates makes the position susceptible to violent and unpredictable behavior. Must be able to work irregular hours and operate a computer terminal and copier.
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All positions are subject to a criminal background check for any convictions that relate to the job duties and responsibilities._
The County's EEO Utilization Report has been available at www.fcva.us/jobs.

Job Type: Full-time