Chief Deputy of Jail Operations

Chief Deputy of Jail Operations

Position Overview

Portsmouth Sheriff's Office is seeking an experienced and dynamic correctional leader to serve as the Chief Deputy of Jail Operations. This executive-level position is responsible for the administration, management, and daily operation of the Portsmouth City Jail and Processing Center.

Reporting directly to the Undersheriff, the Chief Deputy of Jail Operations provides leadership and oversight for jail operations, inmate services, facility security, staffing, compliance, emergency preparedness, fiscal management, and rehabilitation programming. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the safe, secure, and efficient operation of the facility while maintaining compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and correctional standards.

Essential Responsibilities 

• Provide executive leadership and oversight for all jail operations and inmate services.
• Direct and manage detention facility operations, including security, inmate care, transportation, food services, and facility maintenance.
• Develop and implement staffing strategies to ensure operational effectiveness and efficient deployment of personnel.
• Oversee annual budget preparation, fiscal management, and resource allocation.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and correctional standards.
• Oversee compliance with Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) standards, including training, reporting, investigations, and corrective actions.
• Direct facility operations during emergencies, critical incidents, disturbances, and other crisis situations.
• Evaluate operational effectiveness and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
• Represent the Sheriff's Office with governmental agencies, community organizations, professional associations, and regulatory entities.
• Review and approve personnel recommendations, disciplinary actions, and operational initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of supervisory or managerial experience, including at least five (5) years in jail administration.
• Minimum of two (2) years of executive-level leadership experience within a correctional environment.
• Demonstrated experience managing correctional operations in a local or regional detention facility of comparable size and complexity.
• Knowledge of evidence-based correctional programming, inmate rehabilitation initiatives, and successful reentry practices.
• Valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• Certified Jail Manager (CJM), American Jail Association. (preferred)
• Certified Corrections Manager (CCM), American Correctional Association.
• Experience overseeing complex correctional operations, budgets, and workforce planning initiatives.

Required Certifications

Must obtain and maintain Virginia Jailer Certification as required by VADOC/VADCJS regulations.

Working Environment

Work is performed within a correctional facility environment and may involve exposure to hostile, disruptive, or emergency situations. The position requires the ability to inspect housing units, walk extended distances, climb stairs, and respond to emergencies as needed.

Benefits

The Portsmouth Sheriff's Office offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS), health insurance, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume for consideration via Indeed. Selected candidates will be invited to participate in the interview process and will be required to complete a Portsmouth Sheriff's Office employment application.  Final candidates must successfully complete all pre-employment screenings, including a background investigation, psychological evaluation, and drug screening.

The Portsmouth Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer.