Job Details

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Houston, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 2026-1230-E
Department: Detention Command
Opening Date: 01/13/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

POSITION OVERVIEW
General Summary

The Detentions Major provides strategic, operational, and administrative leadership for an assigned detention bureau or facility under the Sheriff's Office jurisdiction. This position is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Texas Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS) and all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing the safe, secure, and humane detention of inmates. The incumbent oversees all jail operations, including security, inmate services, medical and mental health coordination, classification, staffing, and policy compliance.

The Detentions Major serves as a key member of the Sheriff's executive leadership team and provides expert guidance on matters affecting jail operations, staffing, facility management, and inmate welfare. This role requires a balance of strategic vision, operational discipline, and collaborative leadership across divisions and external partners.

This position emphasizes strong leadership, operational discipline, data-informed management, and interagency coordination to achieve high standards of safety,service delivery, and compliance.
Duties and Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee daily operations of the assigned detention bureau or facility under the Sheriff's Office jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with TCJS standards and applicable federal laws.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate operational policies, procedures, and performance standards to promote safety, efficiency, and accountability.
• Provide leadership and guidance to command-level staff, fostering a culture of professionalism, ethical conduct, and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with medical, mental health, food service, and maintenance contractors to ensure high-quality inmate care and facility operations.
• Ensure compliance with the Texas Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS) requirements within the assigned facility and coordinate with the Jail Commander on inspections and compliance activities.
• Develop and maintain relationships with courts, law enforcement agencies, and community partners to facilitate inmate services and successful reentry initiatives.

• Analyze data, trends, and incident reports to identify systemic issues and implement corrective actions.
• Coordinate with the Jail Commander to provide input on facility operations and long-term planning as directed. Represent the Sheriff's Office in meetings, audits, and community or interagency partnerships as directed.
• Perform other related duties assigned by the Jail Commander or Chief of Detentions.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• 10 years of progressively responsible experience in jail, correctional, or law enforcement administration, including 5 years in a senior command or executive role.
• Demonstrated experience managing large-scale operations, budgets, and personnel within a regulated correctional environment. Comprehensive understanding of Texas Commission on Jail Standards requirements and best practices in detention management.
• Proven ability to lead large organizations, manage crises, and make sound decisions under pressure.
• A strong equivalent combination of education and leadership experience may be considered

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of evidence-based practices in corrections, reentry and mental health diversion.
• Expert knowledge of jail operations, inmate classification systems, and correctional management principles.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire confidence and accountability at all organizational levels.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities, including data-driven decision-making.
• Proficiency in organizational planning, project management, and interagency coordination.
• Deep understanding of applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including TCJS standards, PREA, and constitutional requirements.

Licenses and Certifications

• Must possess and maintain a TCOLE Jailer License at time of appointment; a Texas Peace Officer License preferred.
• Must maintain compliance with all TCJS training and certification standards.
• Possession of a valid Texas driver's license required.

PREFERENCES

• A degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field.
• Graduate of advanced correctional or jail leadership programs (e.g., National Jail Leadership Command Academy, NIC Jail Administrator School, JEEP, or FBI National Academy).
• Demonstrated success managing operations in facilities exceeding 1,000 beds or overseeing multiple detention locations.
• Experience developing or implementing evidence-based practices, reentry programming, or technology-based efficiency initiatives.
• Proven record of collaboration with oversight agencies, county departments, and community partners.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Primarily located within a detention facility environment, with frequent movement between assigned areas, housing units, and administrative offices.
• May be exposed to correctional environments requiring heightened safety awareness and direct contact with inmates.
• Subject to 24/7 availability for emergencies, major incidents, or operational demands.

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work

• Position Type: Appointed by the Sheriff, Civil Service Exempt - Full-time, exempt

Other Duties:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Reporting Relationships:

• Reports To Position: Jail Commander / Chief of Detentions
• Supervises Positions: Managers

To Apply:

• Meet the requirements for transfer as stated in the Harris County Sheriff's Office Manual, Section 229, and be in an active status
• Complete the online job application (including employment history and education) and attach the following documents:
  • Copy of the most recent evaluation (front and back) attached to the application
  • Transcripts

Incomplete applications will delay the application process
Note:

• Submission of an application/transfer request by an employee neither implies nor ensures the transfer will be granted
• Transfers will be decided based on the needs and the best interest of the HCSO
• Applicant submission of Job Request Packet does not guarantee an interview

Equal Opportunity Statement
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
BENEFITS

Harris County offers a competitive benefits program, including comprehensive group health and related benefits plan as well as a defined benefit retirement plan.
The following list of benefits is offered only to employees in regular (full-time) positions:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Wellness
• Life Insurance
• Long-term disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• 10 days of vacation each year for the first five (5) years of service. Accrual rates increase based on years of service.
• 10 county holidays plus one (1) floating holiday
• Paid Parental Leave
• Professional development opportunities
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Healthcare Reimbursement Account
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The following benefits are also available to regular (full-time) employment and may be available to part-time employees:

• Retirement pension (TCDRS)
  • Flexible schedules (varies by department)
    • Transportation Assistance (Metro RideSponsor Program)

In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, Group Health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County benefits website:
01

Employees of the Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) are exposed to confidential and law enforcement sensitive information. A thorough background investigation is required to properly evaluate the suitability of applicants for employment. For this reason, it is essential that you provide accurate information in all aspects of the process. The process will end for applicants who fail to provide truthful information. The following questions address information required to start the pre-qualifying requirements of the recruitment process. All information obtained herein will be used for purposes of initiating a background investigation only. Additional questionnaires will be required at later stages of the application process. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin or disability.

• I have read the above statement and understand that by submitting this application I agree to be subject to a background investigation including but not limited to education, employment, driving record, criminal history, financial responsibility, or any such areas of investigation deemed reasonable and justifiable for purpose of employment with the HCSO.

02

Which of the following best describes your education as it relates to this position?

• Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field
• Associate's Degree in an unrelated field
• Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field
• Bachelor's Degree in an unrelated field
• Master's Degree or higher in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field
• Master's Degree or higher in an unrelated field
• None of the above

03

Which of the following best describes your years of progressively responsible experience in jail, correctional, or law enforcement administration, including 5 years in a senior command or executive role personnel management?

• Less than eight (8) years
• Eight (8) years, but less than nine (9) years
• Nine (9) years, but less than ten (10) years
• Ten (10) years, but less than eleven (11) years
• Eleven (11) years, but less than twelve (12) years
• Twelve (12) or more years
• I do not have this experience

04

Which of the following best describes your years of experience in direct personnel management?

• Less than five (5) years
• Five (5) years, but less than six (6) years
• Six (6) or more years
• I do not have this experience

05

Do any of the following pertain to you as it relates to this position?Check ALL that apply.

• Texas Peace Officer
• Valid Texas driver's license
• Possesses TCOLE Jailer License
• Able to possesses TCOLE Jailer License at the time of the appointment
• Graduate of advanced correctional or jail leadership programs (e.g., National Jail Leadership Command Academy, NIC Jail Administrator School, JEEP, or FBI National Academy).
• None of the above

06

Which of the following experience do you possess?Check all that apply

• Experience supporting operations in a large detention facility or law enforcement agency.
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices in corrections, reentry and mental health diversion.
• Proven ability to lead large organizations, manage crises, and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Demonstrated success managing operations in facilities exceeding 1,000 beds or overseeing multiple detention locations
• Experience developing or implementing evidence-based practices, reentry programming, or technology-based efficiency initiatives.
• None of the above

07

Please provide your full name.(Last Name, First Name, Middle Name (no initials)
08

Please provide your date of birth.
09

Please provide your Social Security Number. (SSN)
10

Which of the following citizenship status applies to you?

• United States Citizen (Born or Naturalized)
• Permanent Resident (Legally authorized to live and work in the United States)
• None of the above

11

Please provide your place of birth. (city, county, state, and country)
12

Do you have a valid driver's license or State issued I.D.? NOTE: A Texas issued driver's license is required prior to start date.

• Driver's License
• State issued I.D.
• None of the above

13

Please provide your current driver's license number, state and expiration date. If you do not have a driver's license please enter N/A.
14

Did you ever serve in the United States military?

• Yes
• No

15

Which branch of the military?Type "N/A" if not applicable
16

Did you receive an honorable discharge? (Copy of DD-214 is required with the application)

• Yes
• No
• Not Applicable

17

Have you ever been employed with a law enforcement agency or correctional facility in any position?

• Currently Employed
• Previously Employed
• Never been employed at a law enforcement agency or correctional facility

18

If yes, please list of ALL Law Enforcement and/or Correctional facilities where you have worked (provide the name of the facility, address and years employed). Type "N/A" if not applicable
19

If you have worked at a law enforcement agency or correctional facility, have you ever been terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or resigned while under investigation?

• Yes
• No
• Not Applicable

20

If yes, please explain (provide details): Type "N/A" if not applicable
21

Do you have social networking, instant messaging or other internet based profiles?

• Yes
• No

22

If yes, please list your screen names and service providers:
23

List all your e-mail addresses below:
24

Have you ever.... Please select all that apply.

• Been Convicted of a felony?
• Been accused/charged with a felony that was dismissed, received deferred adjudication and/or probation?
• Been convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, or the equivalent?
• Been convicted of a Class B misdemeanor, or the equivalent within the last 10 years?
• Been convicted of a Class B misdemeanor, or the equivalent over 10 years ago from today's date?
• Been accused/charged with a Class B misdemeanor or equivalent that was dismissed, received deferred adjudication and/or probation?
• Been dishonorably discharged from the United States armed forces?
• None of the above

25

Please explain your answer below. Include the type of offense, date charged and date of discharge.
26

The Harris County Sheriff's Office has a strict policy on drug usage. If selected you will be required to take a a pre-employment drug screening. All HCSO employees are also subject to random drug testing during the course of their employment. Please answer the following drug use related questions truthfully, admittance of past drug use will not necessary prevent you from future employment with the HCSO.

• I acknowledge the HCSO has a strict drug use policy and that I will be subjected to a drug screening at some point in the recruitment process.

27

Have you ever sold/distributed illegal substances? (e.g. marijuana, prescription drugs, crack, meth, etc.)

• Yes
• Never

28

If you answered yes, please provide the date(s) you sold/distributed an illegal substance and explain what kind of illegal substance you sold/distributed. If you answered "never", please type N/A.
29

Have you ever used any form of marijuana?

• Yes
• No

30

If yes, please explain and provide the date (day, month and year) of the last time you used marijuana. Type "N/A" if not applicable.
31

How many times have you used a prescription drug not prescribed to you?

• Once
• 2 or 3 times
• 4 or 5 times
• 6 or 7 times
• 8 or 9 times
• 10 or more times
• Weekly
• Monthly
• Never

32

When was the last possible date that you used a prescription drug not prescribed to you? Provide specific date or at least month and year Type "N/A" if not applicable
33

Have you ever used any of the following drugs? (Select all that apply)

• Cocaine
• Heroine
• LSD
• Opium
• Other illegal substances
• Speed (Crystal meth, meth, crank, etc.)
• Steroids
• X.T.C. (Ecstasy)
• None of the above

34

If yes, please list the substance used and last possible date (day, month, year) you used any form of illegal drugs. Type "N/A" if not applicable
35

Have you ever been an officer, a member or made a contribution to an organization that advocates or practices the commission of acts of force or violence to discourage others from exercising their rights under the United States Constitution or rights granted by law?

• Yes
• No

36

If yes, please explain your involvement and provide the name of the organization, location, your position and how long you have been/were a member of that organization. Type "N/A" if not applicable
37

An Applicant must be willing to accept any assignment or shift within the Sheriff's Office, to include working on weekends and holidays, as well as additional shifts as needed. Are you willing to work any shift or hours assigned to you?

• Yes
• No

38

Submitting a complete application is the key to successful recruitment. Please read the following requirements carefully and ensure you have provided/documented all required information. 1) Complete employment history is required to be eligible for consideration. Your application's "Employment History" section must include all work history for the past 7 years or all available work history if you have been working for less than 7 years. Begin with your current (or most recent) job. Include full-time, part-time, temporary, seasonal, military assignments and unpaid internships. Periods of unemployment between jobs should also be listed. Type "Unemployed" in the employer's box and list the dates you were unemployed. 2) Complete education history is required. The "Education History" section must list all High Schools attended, as well as all Colleges or Universities if applicable. List name of the school, location (city and state), and dates attended. SUBMITTING AN INCOMPLETE APPLICATION WILL CAUSE DELAYS IN PROCESSING YOUR APPLICATION OR EVEN DISQUALIFICATION.

• I have reviewed my application and verified I have completed all required "Employment History" on this application.
• I have reviewed my application and verified I have completed all required "Education History" on this application.

Required Question