Internship Program - Spring 2027

Job Responsibilities

May Include:

• Assisting with department-specific tasks.
• Observing and participating in assigned departmental activities.
• Serving as a liaison between the department and external partners.
• Supporting assigned area in their daily responsibilities.
• Conducting research, analyzing reports, and contributing to presentations or policy discussions.
• Engaging in community outreach initiatives and assisting with youth-focused programs.
• Participating in professional development sessions, including SCDJJ’s New Intern Orientation (NIO) and additional internship-specific training sessions.
• Completing assigned deliverables within project timelines and maintaining detailed records of work.
• Maintaining confidentiality and adhering to SCDJJ policies and ethical standards.
• Performing other duties as assigned by area supervisor.

Learning Objectives

May Include:

• Understanding of the juvenile justice system, policies, and rehabilitation approaches and how SCDJJ serves the citizens of South Carolina.
• Exposure to case management, legal procedures, and program coordination.
• Professional communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking in a justice-related setting.
• Experience working with at-risk youth and implementing intervention strategies.
• Career development through networking and mentorship opportunities.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled or pursuing a collegiate degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, administration, information technology or a related field.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information.
• Willingness to work in a structured environment with justice-involved youth.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other administrative tools is a plus.
• Must pass a background check and medical screens in accordance with SCDJJ policies.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Additional Comments

Applications are incomplete if you fail to answer all supplemental questions, education, and work history. Incomplete applications are not referred to hiring managers. Applications are accepted until 5:00 p.m. on the stated closing date. You will be asked to provide a certified transcript if selected for a position requiring a degree. A background investigation will be conducted that may include but is not limited to, criminal records, driver's license, and child abuse registry prior to an offer of employment. Additionally, a medical examination and drug testing may be required. Please provide an explanation for any gaps in employment. A resume may be attached to your application but not substituted for completing the work history section of the application.

Benefits

For State Employees The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies. Insurance Benefits Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses. Retirement Benefits State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options. Workplace Benefits State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more. Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.