Discover a Career with Hughes County

Certified Transport Deputy Sheriff

The Hughes County Jail is seeking a dedicated and professional candidate to serve as a Certified Transport Deputy Sheriff. Deputies play a vital role in protecting the public, enforcing federal, state, and local laws, and building positive relationships with the community.

This position requires individuals with strong integrity, sound judgment, and the ability to perform effectively in high-stress situations. Deputies are trusted representatives of the Hughes County and are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while ensuring the safety and rights of the community they serve.

Key Responsibilities

Deputy Sheriffs perform a wide range of law enforcement duties including, but not limited to:

• Safely transport inmates, detainees, and other individuals between correctional facilities, courts, medical appointments, and other authorized locations
• Maintain constant supervision and control of individuals in custody to prevent escape, injury, or harm to the public
• Conduct thorough searches of inmates, vehicles, and transport areas for contraband, weapons, or prohibited items
• Accurately document transport activities, including logs, incident reports, chain-of-custody forms, and mileage records
• Communicate effectively with dispatch, correctional staff, court personnel, and medical staff regarding transport schedules and status updates
• Respond appropriately to emergencies during transport, including medical incidents, vehicle accidents, or escape attempts
• Adhere to all local, state, and federal laws, as well as departmental policies and procedures
• Provide courtroom security when assigned
• Assist with civil paper service and respond to road deputy calls for service or related duties as staffing availability permits.
• Participate in ongoing training related to defensive tactics, firearms, transport procedures, and legal updates
• Collaborate with other law enforcement agencies during interagency transports or extraditions
• This position is assigned to the Hughes County Jail (HCJ
• Responsible for executing and completing criminal investigations at HCJ

Experience

• 1–2 years of public safety, law enforcement, or military experience preferred.

License & Certification Requirements

• Valid South Dakota Driver’s License with the ability to meet departmental driving standards.
• Ability to obtain South Dakota Law Enforcement Officer Basic Certification.

Applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Have no felony convictions or domestic violence assault convictions

• Successfully pass a physical agility test along with background and drug screening

• Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Be able to make sound decisions under pressure

Physical & Work Environment

This position requires the ability to perform physically demanding duties, including:

• Heavy lifting
• Extended periods of sitting or standing
• Frequent writing and communication
• Occasional kneeling, crouching, and physical exertion
• Exposure to hazardous environments
• Use of law enforcement equipment such as firearms, tasers, and other defensive tools

Deputies must maintain the physical fitness and mental readiness necessary to respond effectively to emergencies and protect themselves and others.

Full-Time position

Salary: Approximately $27.00-$30.00 per hour depending on experience

Open Until Filled

Hughes County offers 100% employer paid employee health, dental, and life insurance. There is an 8% employer match to the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS). Along with 12 paid holidays along with paid sick and vacation days.

This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act.

This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

Hughes County does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form 1-9.

"An Equal Opportunity Employer"