Posting number: 190478
Department: Department of Juvenile Justice
Division: Security & Operations
Job classification: Correctional Sergeant
Posting type: Open
Categories: Corrections
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If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference and you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of South Carolina's youth, consider joining the dedicated people of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).
MISSION
It is the mission of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to impact and transform young lives, strengthen families, and support safer communities through targeted prevention and rehabilitation.
JOB PURPOSE:
Under the supervision of the Administrative Captain, the Access Control Sergeant oversees facility access operations to ensure safety, security, and compliance with established procedures. This role includes supervising staff, managing entry and exit processes, and maintaining accountability for all individuals on-site. The position also supports the facility’s rehabilitative mission by promoting a safe, structured environment that encourages positive youth development, accountability, and professional conduct.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
Directs and oversees all pedestrian and vehicle gate operations to ensure authorized access to the facility.
Supervises assigned staff, ensures compliance with security procedures, and maintains accountability for all persons and vehicles entering and exiting the facility.
Monitors and evaluates facility access points, security systems, and perimeter activities to identify potential security threats.
Implements immediate corrective actions and coordinates responses to prevent escapes, contraband introduction, unauthorized access, and other security breaches.
Ensures all visitors, contractors, volunteers, staff, vehicles, deliveries, and property entering the facility are properly screened and searched in accordance with agency policy and security procedures.
Ensures all access control logs, visitor records, vehicle inspections, key inventories, gate activity reports, and related documentation are completed accurately.
Monitors access control equipment and ensures operational readiness of all gate security systems.
Serves as the primary point of contact for access control communications.
Monitors radio traffic, security alarms, and surveillance systems; coordinates emergency notifications; and communicates critical information to facility leadership and response personnel.
Perform other job-related duties and tasks as assigned by the supervisor to further support the agency’s mission and values.
STATE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
A high school diploma.
Must be an officer in compliance with and certified under CLEE (Continuing Law Enforcement Education) within six (6) months of employment. Must have an 80% rate on competency/proficiency exam and possess supervisor and teaching skills.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Performs work within a secured facility relating to the custody, control and transportation or recapture of youth within the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
Position is not sedentary; employees must be mobile and able to bend and lift, interact, and promptly respond when applicable.
Must be able to respond physically to emergency situations.
Required to work shift hours (day, evening, night, weekend, and/or holidays) and be subject to mandatory overtime stay as needed by the facility.
Training applicable to these duties will be provided and will consist of successfully completing the agency’s selected Gatehouse, Control Room, Facility Entry Points and Staff Transportation training. Lifting hands above the head, repeated breathing (inhaling/exhaling) techniques for CPR/First Aid/AED. Kneel on knees (together and individually) unsupported.
Work in extreme heat/cold/ humidity/inclement weather; safely operate a motor vehicle to include having a valid state issued driver’s license.
Walk and/or stand for extended periods of time, sit in a desk chair for up to eight hours per day at least 5-7 days per week, visually distinguish subjects at distances of up to 75 yards, wear protective equipment in case of emergencies.
Attend training and maintain certification required by the Continuing Law Enforcement Education (CLEE).
This position performs job duties relating to the custody, control, transportation, or recapture of youth within the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Justice. The employee may have direct and indirect contact with youth within the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Justice. Training applicable to these duties will be provided.
PREFERRED AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:
A bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related accompanied with experience supervising, mentoring and interacting with at-risk youth.
Must be 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a high school diploma or equivalent. Must also have 18 months of experience in correctional, security, military, or police work. Must attend, pass and maintain all required DJJ training courses.
The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:
Applications are incomplete if you fail to answer all supplemental questions, education, and work history. Incomplete applications are not referred to hiring managers. Applications are accepted until 5:00 p.m. on the stated closing date.
You will be asked to provide a certified transcript if selected for a position requiring a degree. A background investigation will be conducted that may include but is not limited to, criminal records, driver's license, and child abuse registry prior to an offer of employment. Additionally, a medical examination and drug testing may be required. Please provide an explanation for any gaps in employment. A resume may be attached to your application but not substituted for completing the work history section of the application.
Why do more than 5 million people call South Carolina home? The answer is easy. From the beach to the mountains, the Palmetto State offers something for everyone. Sunny summers and mild winters allow residents to experience the outdoors year-round.
The state has eight metropolitan areas, including Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Florence, Greenville, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach and Spartanburg. Great universities and colleges, minimal commute times and friendly people make South Carolina the ideal place to build your future.
