Oklahoma County Detention Center Job Fair: 16 November

The Oklahoma County Detention Center job fair takes place on Monday 16 November 2026, from 3 to 6 p.m., at the jail, 201 North Shartel Avenue, Oklahoma City. The center wants detention officers for an academy that begins on 20 November, plus licensed nurses. You can also apply on its official website today, with no agent and no fee.

What is happening on 16 November?

Local station News 9 reported that county officials are holding the three-hour event to fill officer and medical posts. Recruits hired as officers would join the next training class, which is due to start four days later.

What is the pay?

The center's human resources page sets out the officer ladder. Payday is once a month, on the final business day.

A Maintenance Officer post is also listed, without a pay figure on the page we read. Health cover begins on the first of the month after 60 days of employment.

Who can apply?

The careers page gives four basic conditions: a high school diploma or GED, a clean drug test and background check, a valid driver's license and U.S. citizenship. Nurses must hold a current Oklahoma nursing license. Because citizenship is required, these posts are not open to foreign applicants.

The benefits listed are an eight-week academy with more than 200 hours of teaching, uniforms and gear (you buy your own boots), retirement and health plans, paid leave and free meals on duty.

How to apply — step by step

1. Decide how you will apply. Walk in on 16 November between 3 and 6 p.m., or use the online application at any time.
2. Choose your position. The form has a drop-down that includes Detention Officer, Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Certified Medication Passer and Maintenance Officer.
3. Fill in every section. It asks for personal details, education, military service, your job history, personal and professional references, and background questions.
4. Upload your driver's license. The form will not submit without the file.
5. Read and accept the disclosures. They authorize a full background investigation.
6. Complete selection. The application says officer candidates take a physical agility test, a written exam and a panel interview.
7. Pass the medical and drug screen after a conditional offer.

The website's contact numbers are 405-907-1930 and 405-504-6811. Apply only through okcountydc.net or in person at the jail. The center itself warns the public about callers who pretend to be staff and ask for money, so never pay anyone for a job here.

Tips that raise your chances

• Bring documents to the fair: photo ID, driver's license, diploma or GED, and a nursing license if you are a nurse.
• Be exact on the form. It states that false or missing facts lead to refusal or dismissal. List every employer and explain any gaps.
• Know the marijuana rule. The post is safety-sensitive, and the form says an offer can be withdrawn after a positive test even if you hold a medical card.
• Get ready for the agility test. Start walking, jogging and basic strength work now.
• Tell your references to expect a call, so the background check moves quickly.
• Common mistake: arriving at 5:55 p.m. Come early, because the 20 November class leaves little time for paperwork.

Quick checklist: ID, license, diploma, work history with dates, three references with phone numbers and comfortable clothes.

What it means for job seekers

• Public safety work in Oklahoma City is within reach here without a degree, and training is paid.
• The work is demanding and shift-based, and hiring depends on the background check, so nothing is promised in advance.
• If you miss Monday's event, the online form stays open.

Two more public-sector options: Laredo Police Department's new application window, or USDA's 228 positions in Edinburg, Texas.

More openings: all USA jobs