Public Safety Officer - Trainee

Public Safety Officer - Trainee

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice

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.

Under general supervision of the Director of Public Safety, will respond to and resolve calls for service, perform law enforcement duties by patrolling S.C. Department of Juvenile Justice Campuses to ensure the safety and security of persons and property.

• Conduct perimeter patrols of all areas within DJJ Institutional grounds on a regular and non-scheduled basis.
• Respond to calls for service/assistance.
• Observe, instruct, correct, investigate and report persons or incidents involving, but limited to, suspected break-ins, tampering, vandalism, thefts, property damage, safety hazards, smoke, fire obstructions and conditions or violations contrary to the best interest of institution.
• Investigate motor vehicle collisions on DJJ property.
• Investigate all escapes from institutions upon apprehension of juvenile(s).
• Transport juvenile(s) as required for medical appointments, funerals, etc. in and/or out state.
• Prepare written reports of investigation based on his or her actions.
• Escort unauthorized, unruly visitors, or terminated employee(s) off DJJ Campuses.
• Perform other duties deemed necessary by the Director of Public Safety and/or the Supervisor.

• A high school diploma and experience performing patrol or investigative duties with a public law enforcement agency. A bachelor's degree may be substituted for the required law enforcement experience.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing to prepare reports.
• Ability to prioritize multiple competing priorities during high stress situations.
• Perform general police work such as maintaining order during emergencies, participating in vehicle and employee searches, be on alert for suspicious activities, drugs, theft, contraband, and juvenile abuse.
• Patrol assigned area to prevent crime and detect violations of law.
• Respond to complaints, reports of violations and request for assistance.
• Investigate traffic collisions.
• Escort unruly visitors off campus.
• Perform emergency and routine juvenile transport.
• Provide a safe environment for the juvenile(s), visitor(s) and employee(s) of DJJ.

Candidate should possess high moral, character, someone stable and nature and able to withstand a background investigation. Must be able to work with aggressive delinquent juveniles daily in accordance with SCDJJ Policies and Procedures. Must be able to lift 50+ lbs., sit 1-3 hours per day: stand 1-3 hours per day, walk 1-3 hours per day and ability to work varied hours to meet organizational needs.

Deal with confidential and sensitive information. Ability to prioritize multiple competing priorities during high stress situations and ability occasionally travels overnight.

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.

• Must have a high school diploma or GED and experience performing patrol or investigative duties with a public law enforcement agency.
• A valid SC Driver’s License.
• Must pass background check, drug test and complete a physical exam.
• Must pass a reading comprehensive test and psychological evaluation.
• Must attend and complete South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy within 1 year.

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Health, dental, and life insurance
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days of sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• State retirement plans and deferred compensation programs
• Discount Programs such as Ticketat Work and We Save

Applications are accepted until 5:00 p.m. on the stated closing date.

Applicants must 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 pre-employment drug screening will be required. Medical examinations may also be required depending on the position. Lastly, please provide an explanation for any gaps in employment.