07/09/2000 47010

CORRECTIONS MAIL INSPECTOR

DEFINITION: This is specialized clerical work in the inspection and processing of mail in a state correctional institution or facility.

An employee in this class opens and examines packages, periodicals, and letters addressed to and from inmates for the purpose of identifying restricted and
privileged mail, and preventing the transmission of contraband material. Work is performed in accordance with agency and United States Postal Service
regulations in the processing of inmate and business mail. Supervision is received from a higher level inspector, however, an employee is expected to apply independent judgment regarding the application of current standards and guidelines used in identifying prohibited items. Employees are to treat mail information confidentially. Work is reviewed while in progress and upon completion by observation, review of reports, and inspection of records.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Opens and examines inmate letters and packages to prevent transmission of contraband material, and to identify restricted
correspondence with inmates of other institutions, ex-inmates, victims of inmate's criminal acts, and other addressees on the restricted list.

Inspects and examines magazines, periodicals, and books for contraband and for adherence with Department policies and procedures.

Consults with supervisor on disposition of contraband material, restricted correspondence, and in regard to violations of agency and U.S. Postal Service
regulations.

Processes incoming and outgoing privileged correspondence unopened in accordance with agency regulations.

Removes and records money orders, certified checks, cash, and transmits daily receipts to Inmate Account Section for deposit in individual accounts and returns
personal checks to sender.

Assists in sorting, wrapping, and addressing packages, operation of scales, postage metering machine and other equipment, pick-up and delivery, and related work in processing incoming and outgoing inmate mail and institution business mail.

Maintains a record of postage free and paid postage letters mailed each month by inmates, itemized content of all packages, and other information relative to general operation of a central mailroom in a state correctional institution or facility.

Operates standard office and postal equipment.

Operates hand-held metal detectors, x-ray machines and other scanning devices to examine mail for contraband.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of correctional institution administrative procedures and practices as they relate to the corrections mail inspection function.

Knowledge of office practices, procedures, and equipment.

Ability to learn interpret and follow agency and U.S. Postal Service regulations applicable to inmate mailing privileges and business mail.

Ability to learn and operate postal processing and office equipment such as postage meters, scales, calculator, letter openers, typewriter, etc.

Ability to learn and operate scanning devices, such as hand-held metal detectors and x-ray machines, etc.

Ability to organize work and develop effective work methods.

Ability to make duty oriented decisions and to treat acquired information confidentially.

Ability to maintain records and prepare reports.

Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations such as adding and subtracting of whole numbers and decimals; and multiplying and dividing whole numbers or
decimal multipliers and divisions.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Two years of clerical experience, including one year in the field of corrections;

                                                                                                                                              or

Any combination of experience and/or training which provides the Required Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities.