Access Control Sergeant - MEDC

Job Responsibilities

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.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

STATE

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

A high school diploma.

Special Requirement:

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:

Knowledge of state laws/institutional rules/regulations/requirements for the control of youth/Child Abuse Statutes.

Knowledge of purpose/methods/practices of secure facilities.

Knowledge of various methods of instructing/handling/supervising youth in various activities.

Interpersonal skills, patience and both verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

Ability to exercise good judgment/initiative in a variety of situations.

Ability to build healthy relationships with youth and effectively communicate with them in order to promote respect and trust with them and manage challenging behaviors in a mature and professional way and in accordance with training.

Ability to establish/maintain satisfactory working relationships with fellow employees/families/general public.

Ability to maintain a valid state driver's license, and ability to operate a state vehicle.

Ability to follow a daily schedule, be accountable to the facility processes, document events and activities, and supervise multiple youths effectively.

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…