Internship Program

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference and you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of South Carolina's youth, consider joining the dedicated people of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).

MISSION:
It is the mission of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to impact and transform young lives, strengthen families, and support safer communities through targeted prevention and rehabilitation.

Cohorts offered in Spring, Summer, & Fall

Position Summary:

The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (SCDJJ) Internship Program provides students and emerging professionals with hands-on experience related to many facets of the juvenile justice system. Interns will gain insight into SCDJJ operations while assisting in key areas of the agency. This internship is designed to develop professional skills and provide real-world exposure to juvenile justice careers and the supporting administrative functions.

Key Responsibilities May Include:

Assisting with department-specific tasks.

Observing and participating in assigned departmental activities.

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.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

Qualifications:

Currently enrolled or pursuing a collegiate degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, administration, information technology or a related field.

Must be 21 years of age or older.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

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.

Performance Assessment & Program Evaluation:

To ensure a meaningful internship experience and evaluate program effectiveness, SCDJJ will develop learning objectives and evaluation standards for each internship area. Interns will receive regular feedback from their supervisors, participate in structured check-ins, and complete a final evaluation to assess progress and skill development.

SCDJJ will work with the college’s respective academic advisors to ensure internship requirements are met.

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.