Walton County Sheriff's Office - Central Control Room Operator

Position Summary

The Control Room Operator is responsible for monitoring, coordinating, and controlling the secure movement of inmates, staff, and visitors within the detention facility. Working within a high-security environment, the operator utilizes surveillance systems, electronic controls, radios, and intercoms to ensure the safety, order, and efficient operation of daily jail activities. This position requires constant vigilance, clear communication, and the ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies or unusual occurrences. The Control Room Operator maintains accurate documentation, operates various computer systems, and supports law enforcement personnel by relaying critical information in real time.

Qualifications 

• Education – High School Diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• 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.

• Monitors all internal and external facility areas using closed-circuit television (CCTV), intercoms, and radio communications to maintain continuous situational awareness.
• Controls all electronic doors, gates, and secure areas to ensure safe and authorized movement of staff, inmates, and visitors.
• Observes and assesses inmate behavior, promptly identifying irregularities, disturbances, or security breaches.
• Responds to alarms, emergency alerts, and requests for assistance, following established security and emergency response protocols.
• Maintains visual observation of all activities to ensure compliance with facility rules, regulations, and safety procedures.
• Maintains constant radio contact with detention deputies and other personnel to coordinate movement and relay critical information.
• Communicates with inmates through intercom systems in a professional, calm, and controlled manner.
• Answers telephone and radio calls, responding to inquiries and relaying information to authorized parties accurately and efficiently.
• Dispatches emergency services personnel (fire, medical, law enforcement) when required and maintains communication during incidents until resolved.
• Operates the facility’s computerized management and records systems to retrieve, update, and enter information in accordance with established procedures.
• Prepares, maintains, and updates detailed logs, reports, and documentation regarding inmate movement, facility activities, and incidents.
• Issues, tracks, and documents facility keys, maintaining strict accountability and control at all times.
• Assists in maintaining and updating facility maps, control panel layouts, and security system reference materials.
• Initiates appropriate emergency protocols in response to fires, medical emergencies, escapes, or security threats.
• Provides accurate and timely information to responding personnel and supervisors during critical incidents.
• Monitors and coordinates facility lockdowns or evacuations as directed.
• Supports investigative or review processes by providing video footage, access logs, or incident reports as requested.
• Operates and troubleshoots control room equipment, including CCTV systems, radios, intercoms, alarms, and door control panels.
• Conducts regular checks and reports malfunctions or safety hazards to the appropriate personnel for maintenance or repair.
• Utilizes computer applications such as UCJIS/NCIC/FCIC, New World, and internal facility databases for daily tasks.
• Maintains confidentiality and adheres to all state, federal, and local laws, regulations, and departmental policies.
• Demonstrates professionalism, courtesy, and integrity in all communications and interactions.
• Remains composed and decisive during stressful or emergency situations.
• Participates in required training, drills, and continuing education to maintain operational readiness.
• Exemplifies reliability through regular and prompt attendance and consistent adherence to work schedules.
• Performs additional tasks or assumes temporary assignments as directed to support facility operations and security objectives.

Required Skills 

• Knowledge of facility layout, including locations of sally port controls, cell locks, control panels, secure perimeters, and emergency equipment.
• Knowledge of relevant computer systems, including UCJIS/NCIC/FCIC, New World, and other detention facility software applications.
• Proficiency in operating control room equipment such as CCTV systems, intercoms, two-way radios, door control panels, and alarm systems.
• Skill in multitasking and maintaining situational awareness in a fast-paced, high-security environment.
• Skill in preparing, maintaining, and reviewing accurate logs, reports, and records.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to remain calm, focused, and decisive during emergency or high-stress situations.
• Ability to maintain visual concentration and attention to detail for extended periods of time.
• Ability to interpret, follow, and apply departmental policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and use discretion when handling sensitive information.
• Ability to interact effectively, tactfully, and firmly with inmates, staff, and the public.
• Proficiency in basic computer and data entry tasks, including use of Microsoft Office or equivalent software.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with supervisors, coworkers, and other law enforcement personnel.

Key Competencies 

• Attention to Detail: Demonstrates precision and accuracy when monitoring security systems and documenting information.
• Situational Awareness: Maintains alertness to potential security threats and operational issues within the facility.
• Communication: Clearly and effectively conveys information through radio, intercom, written reports, and verbal exchanges.
• Judgment and Decision-Making: Evaluates situations quickly and determines appropriate actions within established guidelines.
• Integrity and Ethics: Maintains confidentiality, honesty, and compliance with laws and policies.
• Stress Tolerance: Performs effectively under pressure, especially during emergencies or critical incidents.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Works cooperatively with jail personnel, law enforcement officers, and emergency responders.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility for actions, decisions, and assigned duties.
• Technical Proficiency: Effectively uses security, communication, and computer systems to perform daily tasks.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to changing priorities, procedures, and operational requirements.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates reliability, punctuality, and a respectful, service-oriented demeanor.

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to remain seated and maintain focused visual attention for extended periods while monitoring multiple video screens.
• Ability to operate computer keyboards, control panels, radios, and intercom systems using manual dexterity.
• Ability to hear and comprehend radio transmissions, alarms, and verbal communications in a noisy or stressful environment.
• Ability to communicate clearly in person and over electronic communication systems.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring moderate physical effort, including occasional bending, reaching, or lifting objects up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to maintain alertness and quick responsiveness during all shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Visual acuity sufficient to monitor video displays and identify details or irregularities in surveillance footage.
• Ability to sit, stand, or remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods as required by shift operations.
• Sufficient mobility to perform emergency response actions or assist others in case of fire, alarm, or evacuation.

Benefits 

•  24 - Hour Access to 2 Agency Gyms 
• Florida State Retirement System - 3% Employee Contribution
• Health, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Insurance
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave & Paid Holidays
• Deferred Compensation Plans Available
• Tuition Assistance for College Courses
• Employee Assistance Program: counseling services for employees, immediate family, and members of your household
• Physical Fitness Program: Participants Can Earn up to $2,160 Per Year

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.