Frequently Asked Questions

What is SCDC doing for COVID-19 safety?

SCDC is closely monitoring current CDC and SCDHEC recommendations regarding COVID. Masks are always to be worn inside administrative buildings and inside the institutions. Staff temperature checks are conducted upon arrival each day, and cleaning is done daily to maintain a safe working environment. The buildings are fogged with cleaning solutions on a monthly basis with additional fogging taking place when a work area has possible COVID exposure. In April 2020, SCDC established a Staff Assistance COVID-19 Call Team to answer questions and concerns that may arise from initial medical screening, travel concerns, development of symptoms, and COVID-19 test results. In December 2020, SCDC began offering on-site testing for staff at all Headquarters administrative buildings and institutions located in Columbia, SC. Staff testing is required in 14-day cycles to minimize potential spread and exposure to others. SCDC plans to expand testing to outer lying institutions in the coming months.

Where is SCDC hiring?

SCDC is hiring for our 21 correctional institutions across South Carolina and our many administrative offices located at our Headquarters in Columbia, SC.

Who do I talk about Health Services positions?

Lindsey Mitcham
Health Services Recruiter
Email: [email protected]
Office: (803)896-8532
Cell: (803)602-2860

Who can I speak with about Correctional Officer positions?

Lt. Regina Mays (Columbia/Orangeburg)
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 803-422-8654

Lt. Reginald White (Lowcountry)
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 803-602-2682

Lt. Erika Grissett (Aiken/Augusta/Greenwood)
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 803-422-9422

Lt. Gerald Robinson (Upstate)
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 803-528-1622

Lt. Rodney Baker (Fairfield/York/Kershaw/Lancaster)
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 803-542-0220

Lt. Donnie Roderick (Sumter/Florence/Horry)
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 803-422-9692

Is there more than just Correctional Officer or Security positions available?

Yes, SCDC employs a variety of occupations across the state. We are hiring Nurses and Health Services positions, Food Service Specialists, Certified Teachers, HVACs, Electricians, Plumbers, Case Workers, Chaplains, Administrative Specialists, and so much more. If you have a question about a specific occupation, visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sc/scdc to view all positions currently available.

Are part-time and full-time positions available?

Yes, SCDC has part-time and full-time positions available for Correctional Officers and many Health Services positions.

Do I have to live in South Carolina to apply?

No, you can apply to work at SCDC from another state. SCDC welcomes out-of-state individuals to apply to join our team and relocate to see what South Carolina living is about.

I’m intimidated by the prospect of working in an institution. What advice do you have?

Corrections is a team, and retention officers will help you along the way. Every new hire goes through paid training, which will either be one week or four weeks depending on your assigned work area.

Working in corrections is not like what is often portrayed in the movies or on TV, which is often sensationalized for dramatic effect. The job of officers and staff is to provide a secure and productive rehabilitative environment for the inmate population. Our mission at SCDC is Safety, Service, and Stewardship, and our employees help us ensure that we accomplish our mission daily.

What are the requirements to be a Correctional Officer?

Applicants considering a position as a Correctional Officer need a High School Diploma or GED and a valid Driver’s License. Correctional Officers No prior correctional or law enforcement experience is required. Correctional Officers also need to be 21 years of age and older. SCDC does have some Cadet positions available for persons 18-20 years of age. There is no age maximum. Applicants must pass a physical examination, which is includes a drug test and a tuberculosis test.

What if I am not a big/strong person?

Physical traits like these are at the bottom of the list when it comes to what we look for in correctional employees. Communication skills are most important. If you can communicate effectively and respectfully, we would love for you to join our team. In addition to communication, following and implementing the security rules that will keep our institutions and communities safe is of crucial importance.

I have a criminal background; can I be an officer?

All applicants must pass a criminal background check. Most criminal offenses will not prevent you from being hired. If you have questions about your specific case, contact our Recruiting office at [email protected].

I have a family member or friend currently incarcerated. Can I still be an officer?

This does not prevent you from being a corrections officer, however, it is important that you be honest when completing information when requested about people that you know that have been or are incarcerated so the proper steps can be taken.

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Contact Us Today

SCDC Employment Office

4502 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
803-734-JOBS
Fax: 803-896-1671
www.JoinSCDC.com
Email: [email protected]

SCDC is a Veteran Preference Employer.