Are you looking for a rewarding career that allows you to make a positive impact on your community? Learning how to become a correctional officer in South Carolina might be the right path for you. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps and provide valuable insights into this fulfilling profession.
What you’re about to learn in this guide:
South Carolina correctional officer positions require age, education and background qualifications.
The application process involves interviews, exams and a Civil Service Examination testing language comprehension skills. Training includes an orientation program, specialized training at the Federal Bureau of Prisons Academy and additional annual hours.
A career in this field offers job stability with attractive benefits such as sign-on bonuses, overtime pay & comprehensive healthcare plans. Yet requires dedication to ensure success through positive attitude & respect for inmates.
South Carolina Correctional Officer Requirements
Candidates aiming to become a correctional officer in South Carolina need to fulfill certain education, age, and background qualifications. While specific requirements may differ for state and federal positions, a basic correctional officer certification remains a common prerequisite for all roles.
For state positions, applicants must be at least 18 years old and no older than 37. They are also required to have a valid driver’s license and certification as a detention officer in South Carolina.
Federal positions, on the other hand, require candidates to be at least 20 years old and no older than 37. In addition, applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or have three years of relevant work experience in a related field, as mentioned in the job description.
Note that the South Carolina Department of Corrections is committed to offering equal opportunities to all applicants. They do not discriminate based on:
race
color
religion
sex (including pregnancy)
national origin
age (40 or older)
disability
genetic information
This policy applies to all county SC correctional facilities, including processing intake inmates and inmate clean up detail.
State vs. Federal Positions
Comparing state and federal correctional officer positions in South Carolina reveals differences in requirements, training, and job responsibilities.
State correctional officers, including those in Columbia SC, are required to:
Complete 200 hours of on-the-job training during their first year of employment
Complete 40 hours of training with the South Carolina Department of Corrections in the first year
Complete an additional 40 hours of training each year for as long as they remain employed there
Federal correctional officers in South Carolina have specific training and applicant requirements as well. Their duties include:
Supervising daily operations of inmates
Conducting surveillance
Inspecting jail cells
Instructing and counseling officers
Administering disciplinary action
Providing supervision and security to inmates
Guiding lower-graded officers
Enforcing regulations and maintaining order
Ensuring safety and inmate accountability
The average hourly salary for a federal correctional officer in South Carolina is $20.66, making it a competitive option for those seeking corrections officer jobs in the state.
The extensive training for both state and federal positions helps correctional officers manage inmates with various sentences, including those with the maximum allowable sentence. This training equips officers with the skills and knowledge needed to maintain a secure and orderly environment within correctional facilities.
Application Process and Hiring Steps
Applying for correctional officer positions in South Carolina entails several steps such as interviews, exams, and background checks. One crucial part of the application process is the Civil Service Examination, a written test that assesses basic language comprehension, communication skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely.
The Civil Service Examination is considered challenging, as it covers a wide range of topics. This exam is relevant for those seeking positions in county correctional center facilities as well. To avoid disqualification from employment, applicants must accurately represent their current and previous work history and education on their state application.
For any inquiries about the application process, applicants can contact Recruiting and Employment Services at (803) 896-1649 or via email at Employment@doc.sc.gov.
Training and Certification
Two main components form the backbone of the training and certification process for correctional officers in South Carolina: the South Carolina Department of Corrections training facility and the Federal Bureau of Prisons Training Academy. Academy training is crucial for achieving career advancement, higher pay grades, and obtaining the correctional officer basic certification.
Recruits in South Carolina are required to attend a one-week, 40-hour orientation program. Successful completion of this program provides the recruits with the knowledge needed to become correctional officers. The purpose of this orientation program is to familiarize new officers with their roles, including the responsibilities of an evaluation escort correctional officer.
For Federal Correctional Officers in South Carolina, they must complete 200 hours of training, with 120 hours of specialized training taking place at the Federal Bureau of Prisons regional training academy in Glynco, Georgia. Federal Officers are required to complete between 16 and 40 hours of additional training each year. This obligation starts from the first year of employment.
Top Correctional Facilities in South Carolina
This section will highlight some of the premier correctional facilities in South Carolina. These facilities house inmate populations of various sizes and offer different types of job opportunities for correctional officers. It is essential to know the specifics of each facility, as the requirements and job responsibilities may differ.
One notable facility is the Broad River Correctional Institution, a federal correctional institution with a diverse inmate population. Another well-regarded facility is FCI-Williamsburg, which housed 1,614 inmates as of 2012. This facility offers more correctional officer opportunities than many other regions in the country.
In addition to these federal correctional institutions, there are also state and county correctional facilities, such as the Manning Reentry/Work Release Center and the Marion County Corrections Officer position located in Marion, SC. These facilities, including those in Marlboro County, offer specialized positions for correctional officers, such as Senior Correction Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Assistant, Part-time Corrections Officer, and Temporary Corrections Officer.
Salaries and Benefits
The type of facility and its location can influence the salaries and benefits for correctional officers in South Carolina. For example:
A Correctional Officer II in South Carolina is estimated to earn an annual salary of $42,681.
A correctional officer at Georgetown County Detention Center is estimated to earn an annual salary of $38,045.
The average hourly wage for a correctional officer in Beaufort, SC is $20.95.
The estimated hourly salary for a correctional officer position in Darlington County, South Carolina is $17.63 per hour.
The estimated salary range for a detention officer at the following facilities are:
York County Detention Center: $45,599 – $49,728 per annum
Marion County Corrections Officer: $16.11 per hour
Bateh Group (Juvenile Correctional Officer): $42,681 – $49,248 per annum
Newberry County Detention Center (Detention Officer): $34,500 – $38,000 per annum.
These salary figures provide a general idea of the potential earnings for correctional officers in South Carolina. However, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements and responsibilities associated with each position and facility when evaluating potential job opportunities.
Career Advancement Opportunities
A plethora of career advancement opportunities await correctional officers in South Carolina. They may progress through ranking officer positions, such as senior correction officer, sergeant, and lieutenant. Additionally, the South Carolina Department of Corrections offers promotional advancement opportunities.
To be eligible for promotions, candidates typically need to meet the following requirements:
Minimum of 18 months of experience in Correctional Security or Police work
Successful completion of Basic Certification training and certification by the SCDC Training Academy
Completion of the Basic Supervisory Course within six months of entry into the position
In addition to these opportunities within the South Carolina Department of Corrections, correctional officers may also pursue degrees in areas such as:
Probation officer
Police officer
Forensic science technician
Criminal profiler
These degrees can facilitate occupational advancement in the corrections field once you successfully complete them.
Tips for Success in the Field
Dedication, professionalism, and continuous learning are key to achieving success as a correctional officer in South Carolina. To maintain professionalism, you should:
Adopt a positive attitude
Treat all inmates with respect
Demonstrate consistency and reliability in your actions
Communicate effectively with peers
Encourage teamwork
Prioritize safety
Present a professional appearance
Focus on physical fitness
Staying informed about industry trends, such as mental health training and the establishment of prison industry services, is also crucial for success. Networking is an effective way to advance in your career. Join professional organizations, attend conferences and workshops, utilize social media, cultivate relationships within the department, and engage in training and development programs to expand your network.
Continuous learning is essential to your success as a correctional officer in South Carolina. By staying up-to-date with the latest techniques, policies, and procedures in the field of corrections, you can develop new skills, broaden your knowledge, and refine your decision-making abilities. This will enable you to provide better services, maintain a safe and secure environment, and contribute to the successful rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.
Challenges and Rewards of a Correctional Officer Career
Working as a correctional officer in South Carolina entails both challenges and rewards. Common challenges include:
Staffing shortages
Contraband issues
Inmate violence
Inmate demands and manipulation
Work-related stress
Burnout
Low pay
Balancing work and life
Despite these challenges, a career in correctional officer jobs can be rewarding due to attractive employee benefits, such as:
A sign-on bonus
Annual leave
Overtime pay (in South Carolina)
A comprehensive healthcare plan
The average salary for a correctional officer in South Carolina is $24.17 per hour.
Ultimately, the potential for personal growth, job stability, and the satisfaction of making a positive impact on the community make a career as a correctional officer in South Carolina worth considering. However, it is essential to weigh the potential hazards and the necessity for a robust attitude and proper training when deciding if this career path is right for you.
Summary
In conclusion, becoming a correctional officer in South Carolina offers a rewarding career path for those who are dedicated, professional, and committed to making a positive impact on their community. With the right qualifications, training, and attitude, you can overcome the challenges of this profession and enjoy a fulfilling career with opportunities for advancement and personal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is SC criminal justice academy?
The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in Columbia requires a 12-week program for Police Officer Trainees, while certified Officers from other states and Military Police can qualify for a 6-week legal portion or challenge test. Field Training Program is 600 hours.
Are correctional officers considered law enforcement in South Carolina?
Yes, correctional officers are considered law enforcement in South Carolina as they have the status of peace officers and the power to arrest in relation to their duties.
How much do federal correctional officers make in South Carolina?
Federal Correctional Officers in South Carolina typically earn around $59,885 per year, with a base salary ranging from $41,095 to $51,219 and total cash compensation averaging $46,152.
What are the basic requirements to become a correctional officer in South Carolina?
To become a correctional officer in South Carolina, applicants must possess basic certification and meet education, age, and background qualifications.
How does the training process differ for state and federal correctional officers in South Carolina?
State correctional officers in South Carolina must complete 200 hours of on-the-job training during their first year, whereas federal correctional officers must meet specific requirements and specialized training at the Federal Bureau of Prisons regional training academy.
