Juvenile Security Sergeant: Youth Rehabilitation Leader

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Health, dental, and life insurance

15 days annual leave

15 days sick leave

13 paid holidays

State retirement plans and deferred*

Job summary

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice seeks a Sergeant to guide Juvenile Correctional Officers in delivering a safe, rehabilitative environment. You will mentor staff, monitor youth welfare, and respond to emergencies within a secure facility.

The role requires a high school diploma, CLEE certification within six months, strong leadership and communication skills, and a valid driver's license. You will support shift operations, conduct inspections, and help maintain orderly and compliant

Qualifications

• High school diploma required.
• Must obtain CLEE certification within 6 months and achieve ≥80% on competency exam; supervisory and teaching skills required.
• Knowledge of state laws and institutional rules for youth/child abuse statutes.
• Knowledge of secure facilities operations and supervision of youth activities.
• Interpersonal and communication skills, with patience and verbal/non‑verbal abilities.
• Ability to drive and hold a valid state driver's license; ability to follow schedules and supervise multiple youths.

Responsibilities

• Engage with youth to ensure safety, security, rehabilitation and well‑being.
• Mentor new security staff and provide guidance on duties.
• Support staff in maintaining youth headcount and routine reporting.
• Respond physically and appropriately to emergencies.
• Conduct routine and unannounced security inspections and searches.
• Ensure basic needs of youth are met and grooming standards observed.
• Maintain knowledge of security status for all youth assigned.
• Coordinate shift coverage and supervise staff and youth operations.
• Assist in training and supervisory duties within units and programs.
• Mediates disputes between youth and JCOs and supports performance evaluations or policy compliance.

Skills

Mentoring

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Verbal and non‑verbal communication

Judgment and initiative

Crisis intervention

Education

High school diploma

CLEE certification within 6 months

Job description

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice seeks a Sergeant to guide Juvenile Correctional Officers in delivering a safe, rehabilitative environment. You will mentor staff, monitor youth welfare, and respond to emergencies within a secure facility.

The role requires a high school diploma, CLEE certification within six months, strong leadership and communication skills, and a valid driver's license. You will support shift operations, conduct inspections, and help maintain orderly and compliant