Plans, coordinates, and directs the duties of Correctional Officers and Sergeants assigned to a designated area, housing unit, or shift within an adult or juvenile correctional facility. Oversees inmate/youth activities and ensures institutional safety and compliance with policies and procedures.
May serve as an assistant shift supervisor or as the designated supervisory Lieutenant over specialized operational areas such as inmate/youth housing, transportation, training, or health and safety. Works under the supervision of a Correctional Captain with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment in carrying out duties. May also serve as a Mental Health Officer or as a Lieutenant on the Correctional Emergency Response Team at the Department of Corrections. May serve as a Rapid Response Officer at the Department of Juvenile Justice.
Performs skilled supervisory duties related to the care, custody, and control of inmates/youth. Plans, schedules, and directs the daily activities of assigned Correctional Officers and Sergeants. Conducts inspections of buildings, grounds, housing units, and work areas to ensure security compliance, sanitation standards, and operational readiness. Supervises searches for contraband and conducts visual, physical, and audio security checks of facility structures, inmate/youth movement, and equipment. Provides oversight of inmate/youth housing units, enforces rules, and monitors sanitation and order within assigned areas. Provides continuous on-the-job training to staff in safety procedures, inmate/youth management, and emergency response protocols. Supervises or assists with inmate/youth transportation, ensuring compliance with security procedures, restraint policies, and applicable laws. Escorts inmates/youth within and outside the secure perimeter, maintaining accountability and control. Conducts headcounts and ensures accurate inmate/youth tracking. Responds to emergencies including assaults, disturbances, escapes, fires, and medical incidents using approved intervention methods, including the use of force when necessary. May provide basic emergency aid such as CPR or first aid and assists with evacuations and area lockdowns. Completes detailed reports on incidents, inspections, and routine activities. Ensures that staff follow policies, protocols, and daily post assignments.
Knowledge of correctional facility operations and the principles of inmate/youth custody and control. Knowledge of supervision practices and the responsibilities involved in overseeing Correctional Officers and Sergeants. Knowledge of policies and procedures related to institutional security, inmate/youth housing, emergency response, and transportation operations. Knowledge of inmate/youth behavior patterns, including indicators of potential unrest or threats to safety. Knowledge of riot control, crisis management, and de-escalation strategies. Knowledge of appropriate use of force, firearms, and restraint devices in accordance with policy. Ability to supervise, train, and lead custody staff across various posts and operational areas. Ability to recognize and respond to threats or emergencies while maintaining safety and order. Ability to communicate effectively with staff, inmates/youth, and supervisors, both orally and in writing. Ability to operate and inspect security systems, locking mechanisms, radios, and surveillance tools. Ability to prepare clear and comprehensive reports detailing events, inspections, and incidents. Ability to maintain control and make sound decisions under dangerous or high-pressure conditions. Ability to direct the daily work activities of staff and ensure compliance with shift assignments and institutional standards. Ability to implement and enforce rules, policies, and disciplinary actions fairly and consistently. Ability to provide leadership and support during emergencies, including disturbances, natural disasters, or medical events. Ability to interpret and apply agency rules, regulations, and procedures in a correctional setting. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers, subordinates, supervisors, and external personnel. Ability to manage inmate/youth behavior through appropriate supervision, counseling, and intervention techniques.
Must be an officer in compliance and certified with Continuing Law Enforcement Education (CLEE) or must obtain this certification within the required timeframe established by the hiring agency. Some positions require completion of the Correctional Officer Basic Certification Course and completion of the Correctional Officer Supervisory Course or completion of both courses within the required timeframe established by the hiring agency after placement into the position. Incumbents may be required to fulfill all South Carolina Law Enforcement Training Board requirements for law enforcement certification. Some positions require a commercial driver's license.
A high school diploma and relevant experience. A bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for the required experience.