Operational Support Sergeant — Youth Facility Safety Lead

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is seeking an Operational Support Sergeant to coordinate key security functions and ensure safe facility operations. The role includes guiding key and tool control, inspections, emergency preparedness, and supervising youth movement within the facility.

You will support rehab-focused mission by maintaining accountability, professionalism, and a positive youth development environment, under Administrative Captain supervision.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma.
• Knowledge of state laws/institutional rules for youth control.
• Interpersonal skills, patience and communication abilities.
• Ability to manage youth with maturity and discipline.
• Ability to maintain working relationships with staff, families and public.

Responsibilities

• Oversees facility key control and tool control programs ensuring accountability and policy compliance.
• Maintains inventories, conducts audits, investigates discrepancies, and implements corrective actions.
• Plans and conducts facility inspections, searches and contraband interdiction to keep youth, staff and visitors safe.
• Develops and evaluates emergency drills and preparedness activities (fire drills, medical emergencies, etc.).
• Ensures staff are prepared to respond effectively during emergencies.
• Plans, supervises, and facilitates movement of youth within and outside the facility.
• Provides support for staffing shortages, special security operations, investigations and other assignments.
• Performs other duties to support the agency’s mission and values.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Verbal & non-verbal communication

Good judgment/initiative

Youth relationship building

Team supervision

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice (preferred)

Tools

State vehicle operation

Job description

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is seeking an Operational Support Sergeant to coordinate key security functions and ensure safe facility operations. The role includes guiding key and tool control, inspections, emergency preparedness, and supervising youth movement within the facility.

You will support rehab-focused mission by maintaining accountability, professionalism, and a positive youth development environment, under Administrative Captain supervision.