Core Competencies

Competencies are defined behaviours that contribute to outstanding performance in a particular job. In addition to the skills and knowledge expected of a Sheriff Officer, they are also expected to demonstrate the competencies listed below.

Sheriff Officers protect the public by administering orders of the Court, and other legal authorities. They provide a safe and secure environment, working as a team to respond effectively to evolving situations and environments. Sheriff Officers assess, address and respond to the needs and risks of offenders. They ensure offenders are classified and managed to enhance safety, and are engaged in meaningful opportunities which encourage pro-social behaviour and positive change, ultimately leading to successful reintegration in the community.

Integrity

Acting in a manner that staff and offenders recognize as a person with integrity adds value to the organization and helps to maintain a safe environment within a Sheriff facility.

Integrity
  • Role Model
  • Reliable and Dependable
  • Accountable
  • Recognizes Strengths and Weaknesses
  • Follows Code of Professional Conduct
  • Actions Consistent with Departmental Values and Beliefs
  • Respectful
  • Trustworthy
  • Open and Honest
  • Fair and Impartial
  • Courage of Convictions

Communication

Demonstrating effective oral and written communication skills when dealing with public, offenders and staff to promote a positive, effective, well managed institution through:

  • documentation which is concise, accurate, thorough, factual, non-judgmental, respectful, fair and clearly legible;
  • adjusting verbal communication style to suit the audience and demonstrates leadership, empathy, respect and support;
  • giving clear direction, expectations and consequences, and holding people accountable;
  • reinforcing positive behaviour and demonstrates effective disapproval.
Communication
  • Information Technology
  • Two-Way Communication
  • Non Verbal Cues
  • Good Listener
  • Accurate Written Reports and Logs
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Verbal
  • Supportive Communication
  • Interpersonal

Observation

Monitoring the Sheriff facility or secure transport vehicle to ensure a safe and secure environment by recognizing changes in the environment. Also eliminating, minimizing or mitigating possible hazards or threats by observing interpersonal dynamics, physical environment, technology, training and supervisory skills.

Observation
  • Visits
  • Staff/Peers
  • Searches
  • Proper Security Checks
  • Change in Behaviour / Actions / Interactions
  • Hazards Recognized
  • Technology (e.g. CCTV)
  • Auditory and Visual
  • Audit
  • Supervision
  • Recognize Signs and Symptoms of Offender Behaviour

Offender Management

Managing and monitoring the offenders by being present, building rapport, ensuring standards are consistently met in order to maintain control and be responsive to daily needs by::

  • completing rounds ensuring standards are met (cleanliness, assign tasks and follow up to ensure completion and quality of work).
  • managing conflict on unit before it escalates and interacting with offenders (noticing dynamics of day room, talking one-on-one, early prevention and intervention) proactively resolving issues, following National Use of Force Framework.
  • exercising Core Correctional Practices (CCP).
Offender Management
  • Respect
  • Prioritizing
  • Scheduling
  • Flexibility
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Use of Force
  • De-escalation
  • Assessment
  • Orientation
  • Rapport Building
  • Sentence Planning
  • Discipline
  • Communication
  • Firm and Fair

Safety and Security

Providing a safe and secure environment for the public, offenders and staff by knowing safety and security practices, participating in required training and applying knowledge and skills/expertise through:

  • adhering to schedule for daily routines, rounds, and inspections (noting deficiencies);
  • conducting routines in a manner which complies with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and directives;
  • engaging offenders (encouraging offenders to comply with expectations);
  • demonstrating techniques and skills in searches, OH&S assessments, documentation, use of force and other security practices.
Safety & Security
  • Documentation
  • VCRI
  • Communication
  • CCI / NVCI
  • Occupational Health and Safety
  • Searches
  • Training and Learning
  • Assessment
  • Team Intervention
  • A & D Procedures
  • Equipment Audits
  • Contingency Planning
  • Rounds
  • Physical Skills

Conflict Management

Managing conflict in a way that builds rapport, demonstrates leadership skills, and contributes to the well-being of the facility by:

  • intervening at the right time with the right technique (as per National Use of Force Framework);
  • demonstrating leadership skills (including communication, active listening) with peers and supervisors.
Conflict Management
  • Empathy
  • Crisis Management
  • Physical
  • Leadership Skills
  • Rapport
  • Problem Solving
  • Recognition
  • Resolution
  • Mediation