To apply for a position with the South Dakota Dept. of Corrections, you don’t need to have any special training, nor are there any specific education or experience requirements. In this position, new hires will be training in the primary skills they need in order to be successful.

You will need to be able to perform basic arithmetic, be able to read, write, and apply written instructions in English, and be able to communicate effectively with others, ensuring that the information is both concise and accurate.

In addition to these items, there are other requirements that must also be met as a condition of the hiring process.

• You must be 18 years old
• Submit to Drug Screening prior to the start of training
• Submit to a Criminal Background Investigation
• No felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions for domestic violence of drug use

Training

Training consists of 3-Weeks (Monday-Friday) of paid, on-site training at the South Dakota Dept. of Corrections training academy. Classroom training covers the policies and procedures of the institution, and instruction on restraint devices, cell entry and inspection, and report writing. A mentorship program has been established to provide on-the-job “hands-on” experience working closely with another officer. New Hires will also receive training on firearms operation, mechanical restraints, and chemical agents.

Application Process

In order to apply, prospective officers must submit a South Dakota state employment application and a Correctional Officer Questionnaire to the Bureau of Personnel to the address listed at the top of the application. Ensure that you list the correct job position title and requisition number.

You can also apply to positions online by visiting the following link.

For more information, visit the South Dakota Department of Corrections website at http://doc.sd.gov/ or call 605-773-3148.