How to become a corrections officer in South Carolina
The South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) hires state corrections officers under the title Correctional Officer. New officers start at $44,682 a year, rising to $55,704. You must be at least 18.
Pay
| Starting salary | $44,682 |
|---|---|
| Top of scale | $55,704 |
Pay depends on institution security level: Minimum $44,682-$45,704 (Goodman, Livesay, Manning, Palmer); Medium $49,682-$50,704; Close $54,682-$55,704 (Broad River, Kirkland, Lee, Lieber, McCormick, Perry). SCDC says ranges reflect years of current agency service plus incentives, so this is a hiring band, not a full career scale. Night shift differential; geographic differential at Ridgeland. The same page still shows an older set ($43,806 / $48,806 / $53,806).
Source:[doc.sc.gov]
Requirements
- Minimum age: 18
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Provide valid driver's license (or equivalent photo ID), birth certificate and Social Security card if selected
- Meet the state minimum and SCDC additional requirements listed on each posting
Source:[doc.sc.gov]
Hiring process
- Apply online through SCDC Employment Opportunities (state job site)
- Selection, then document verification (ID, birth certificate, SS card, diploma/GED)
- Paid training per CLEE guidelines
Source:[doc.sc.gov]
Academy
8 weeks, paid.[governmentjobs.com]
Pension and retirement
- Plan: South Carolina Police Officers Retirement System (PORS), Class Three
- Benefit formula: 2.14% of average final compensation × years of service (AFC = highest 20 consecutive quarters / 5, per PEBA handbook)
- When you can retire: Unreduced at 27 years of service at any age, or at age 55 or older with at least 8 years of earned service (8 years required for any monthly benefit)
SCDC lists PORS as a CO benefit. Class Three = membership on or after July 1, 2012. Member contribution 9.75% of gross pay.
Source:[peba.sc.gov]
Checked against official sources on 2026-10-23. Pay plans change; confirm with the employer before applying.