Demo

Correctional Officer

South Carolina Department of Corrections
Columbia, SC Full Time
POSTED ON 9/7/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/7/2026

Company Description: The South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) is a state agency dedicated to correctional excellence today for a safer South Carolina tomorrow. Its mission is to safeguard South Carolinians by providing a secure and rehabilitative environment within our correctional institutions thereby supporting reintegration into society. Established as a statewide correctional system in 1866 and reformed as a modern agency in 1960, it now reports directly to the Governor of South Carolina. The department employs approximately 4,900 staff, oversees just under 20,000 inmates, and operates 21 institutions across the state.


Duties include:

  • Maintain control in inmate dorms, cafeteria, work sites and surrounding areas.
  • Instruct and direct inmates assigned to various work details.
  • Maintain and report inmate count and daily logs; prepare and submit miscellaneous reports.
  • Maintain surveillance and search for contraband.
  • Maintain and inspect building for cleanliness and sanitation; requisition and direct issuance of supplies, tools and equipment; maintain inventory of equipment.
  • Escort visitors and civilian employees through assigned facility.
  • Ensure that inmates receive prescribed treatment including medical and behavioral prescriptions.
  • Control gate tower or other special post.
  • Make prescribed security inspections and searches of specified buildings, building contents, grounds, vehicles and people and take necessary action.
  • Maintain and operate security devices in a security setting, such as gates and doors, weapons and mechanical devices.
  • Instruct and counsel officers concerning duty requirements.
  • Investigate inmate/resident complaints and take appropriate action.
  • Serve as backup for any dorm/building dispute requiring assistance and crisis intervention; make reports to appropriate personnel.


Qualifications:

  • U.S. Citizen.
  • 18 and over.
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Tattoos: Must not be offensive and/or gang related or visibly located on the face or head. Tattoos on the neck will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.


Must pass a medical assessment administered by SCDC.

  • Must successfully complete the Correctional Officer Basic Certification Course within first six months of placement into the position.

Salary.com Estimation for Correctional Officer in Columbia, SC
$47,613 to $60,769
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