Job Summary:

Make a lasting difference in the lives of Georgia’s youth. As a Juvenile Correctional Sergeant with the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), you'll play a critical leadership role in creating and maintaining a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for youth in our care. In this role, you'll support positive behavioral change by modeling professionalism, empathy, respect, and cooperation, while also providing guidance and oversight to correctional staff.

You’ll not only help shape the lives of youth, but also help mentor and lead a team dedicated to rehabilitation, education, and public safety.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure the safety, security, and well-being of youth in accordance with DJJ policies and state regulations.

• Serve as a role model and leader, guiding youth toward pro-social behavior through structure, support, and supervision.

• Maintain discipline and order within the facility by monitoring and addressing youth behavior as needed.

• Complete required administrative tasks, including records, incident reports, and shift documentation.

• Oversee and maintain security equipment, perform routine inspections, and ensure facility readiness at all times.

• Supervise and mentor subordinate staff, assisting the Shift Supervisor in managing day-to-day operations.

• Read and evaluate youth files to identify needs or concerns that may require additional attention or intervention.

• May serve as Shift Supervisor in the absence of the Lieutenant.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED

• At least six (6) months of experience as a Juvenile Correctional Officer 3 (PSP222) or equivalent

• Successful completion of Leadership Core Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced training within the first 6 months

• Ability to obtain and maintain P.O.S.T. Certification within 6 months of hire

• Valid Driver’s License required

Preferred Qualifications:

Applicants who meet the above minimums and also possess the following will be given preference:

• Current certification as a Juvenile Correctional Officer by the Georgia P.O.S.T. Council

• One (1) or more years of experience in a juvenile justice or correctional setting

• Completion of at least one year of college coursework

• Military Service (eligible for salary incentive – see below)

Military Salary Increase Incentive:

• 2.5% increase for 1 year of active-duty service

• 5% increase for 2 years

• 7.5% increase for 3 years

• 10% increase for 4 or more years

Why Join Team DJJ?

At DJJ, we offer more than just a job—we offer a mission with purpose and a career with growth potential. Through the State of Georgia’s Total Rewards Program, our team members enjoy:

• Competitive salaries and promotional opportunities

• Health, dental, and vision insurance options

• Retirement and savings plans

• Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, holidays

• Employee wellness programs and work-life balance resources

• Eligibility for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

For a full overview of our benefits, visit:
https://djj.georgia.gov/Online-Applications/employee-benefits

Important Information:

• This is an unclassified position.

• The selected candidate will undergo a reference check and criminal background check.

• Please include complete and accurate work history on your application for full consideration. All applications are pre-screened.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.