Juvenile Correctional Officer

Minnehaha County • 4200 S. West Ave Sioux Falls, SD

18h

About The Position

Minnehaha County is hiring Juvenile Correctional Officers to provide safety, security, guidance, and support to youth during a critical time in their lives. Officers serve as professional role models, build trust, encourage accountability, and help youth develop skills for making positive choices and building a better future. The role includes supervising youth throughout daily activities, responding to challenging situations, supporting programming, documenting observations, assisting youth and families, and helping with facility operations and juvenile justice processes. The position is part of a 24/7 operation, with standard shifts of 7 a.m.–3 p.m., 3 p.m.–11 p.m., and 11 p.m.–7 a.m.; all positions include rotating weekends and holidays. The advertised start date is January 2027.

Requirements

• Two years of post-secondary education and related experience, or one year of experience working with at-risk youth, in corrections, or in a similarly structured environment; a comparable combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Valid driver's license and safe driving record.
• Successful completion of the pre-employment background process.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and communicate with empathy and confidence.
• Ability to build trust while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Effective communication and sound decision-making in challenging situations.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and remain focused on safety.
• Commitment to treating people with dignity and respect and combining accountability with encouragement.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in criminal justice, behavioral health, education, social services, residential care, military service, or youth programming.

Responsibilities

• Supervise youth during daily activities, including meals, personal care, visitation, phone calls, educational programs, recreation, and other scheduled activities.
• Provide guidance and encouragement to help youth navigate challenges, manage emotions, develop accountability, and make positive decisions.
• Use communication and de-escalation skills to reduce conflict and respond to crises while maintaining safety.
• Enforce facility expectations, follow established procedures, and help youth understand responsibility and accountability.
• Organize and support educational, recreational, and life-skills activities.
• Complete reports, activity logs, observations, and records to support decision-making and youth care.
• Provide guidance to youth and families, participate in mediation, and collaborate with community providers and other partners.
• Assist with admissions, releases, transportation, and facility operations to ensure appropriate care and services.
• Assist with court-related responsibilities, gather information, and connect youth and families with appropriate resources.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off.
• Extended sick leave.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Retirement through the state pension plan.
• Potential retention bonuses of $1,000 at 9, 18, 27, and 36 months of service, subject to good performance and program eligibility requirements.
• Paid classroom and on-the-job training.
• Ongoing learning and professional development opportunities.
• $1 per hour night shift differential.
• Regular opportunities for pay increases.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree