A community corrections official has been named the new administrator of the Leavenworth County jail.

Sheriff Dave Zoellner on Tuesday announced he’s appointed Wade Schmierer, 54, Leavenworth, to handle day-to-day operation of the jail. Schmierer will take over a newly created position — jail administrator.

Zoellner said he determined the new position was necessary, as the county moves to expand the work-release program at the jail. In addition, the sheriff is interested in adding a kitchen to serve the jail and in increasing the number of prisoners held there by taking inmates from overcrowded county jails or federal prisons.

A total of 10 people had applied for the new position.

Schmierer has worked for Leavenworth County Community Corrections, where he’s supervised both adult and juvenile offenders.

He has more than 25 years of supervisory, management and administrative experience in correctional facilities.