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Warden (Berks County Jail System)

Job Title:
Warden (Berks County Jail System)
County Name:
Berks County
The County of Berks is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Warden at the Berks County Jail System. This role is responsible for directing and overseeing the entire operation of the Jail System to include Custody/Security, Operations, Treatment, Budget, Administration, the Special Operations Group, and all Contracted Services. We are searching for candidates with current correctional experience and an innovative management approach to lead the Berks County Jail System.  The Warden reports to and works at the discretion of the County Prison Board.  Proven skills in operating a modern jail system and the ability to complete large-scale initiatives are required.

Key Responsibilities:
This role involves, but is not limited to, the following functions:
 
  • Develops, reviews, revises, implements, disseminates, and interprets jail policies, procedures, post orders, plans, etc. in conformance with BCJS Standard Operating Procedures, PA DOC minimum standards, collective bargaining agreements and applicable laws/regulations concerning conditions of incarceration, inmate programs and services.
  • Responds to staff grievances and complaints and is involved with union management relationship issues.
  • Oversees, guides, and directs internal investigations into allegations of misconduct by inmates and/or employees and refers matters for disciplinary sanction and/or criminal prosecution when necessary. Directs and guides responses to emergency incidents at the jail.
  • Conducts supervisory staff meetings and training and conducts training for all new correctional officers. Conducts final interviews of applicants for key departmental vacancies.
  • Ensures departmental reports, correspondence, documentation, and records/files are completed, processed in a timely manner and handled in accordance with applicable policies/procedures.
  • Plans for necessary expansion of the facility, its services and its personnel. Plans for purchases of equipment and technology needed to support the jail system.
  • Represents the jail system at meetings, conferences, training, community functions, or other events. Serves as liaison to outside agencies; testifies and presents evidence in civil and criminal proceedings related to jail system operations.
  • Provides consultation, information, and other assistance to jail/county department supervisors/staff. Participates in the Pennsylvania County Corrections Association; actively involved in committee work with local and state criminal justice groups/organizations.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, or a related field, from an accredited college or university with a minimum of four years of correctional supervisory experience, and ten years of experience in the field of corrections.
  • Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
  • Must possess valid PA Driver’s License.
 Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to meet all employment criteria established by the Berks County Jail System, which may include job interview, urine drug screen, physical/health assessment, criminal background/credit check, aptitude testing, psychological assessment, and interview by a psychologist.
  • Knowledge of handling/operating all security, safety, maintenance, and other equipment relevant to the position, including but not limited to weapons, restraints, keys, radios, telephones, computers, copiers, etc.
  • Working knowledge, skill, and ability to make immediate sound decisions and judgments in a management capacity within the scope of Berks County Jail System Policy.
  • Ability to conduct in-depth investigations and address culpability of those involved.
  • Working knowledge and ability to receive, analyze, and respond to complaints from inmates, staff, civilians, elected officials and county department supervisors.
  • First Aid and CPR certified.
  • Annual firearms qualification.
  • Ability to identify symptoms of stress-related job performance deficiencies in others and take appropriate action.
  • Ability to handle stress.
  • Physical presence in the facility is required.
 
Application Instructions:
To learn more and apply, visit www.berkspa.gov, select Employment Opportunities, or scan the QR code to access our Career page.

Follow the website instructions to submit your completed application, resume, and cover letter with salary requirements by Friday, April 24th, 2026.

Any specific questions can be directed to Kelly Stumpf – Human Resources Manager at kstumpf@berkspa.gov.
 

 
Posting Date:
Friday, April 10, 2026
Expiration Date:
Friday, July 10, 2026
Contact Name:
Kelly Stumpf
Phone:
(610) 478-6118