Detention Center Training Lieutenant

DETENTION CENTER TRAINING LIEUTENANT  

The purpose of this class is to seek a dedicated and experienced professional to serve as a Detention Center Training Lieutenant. This position reports to the Training Manager and is responsible for supporting the development, coordination, and delivery of training programs for detention center staff. Training Lieutenant will instruct, train, and supervise (new hires), detention center staff using in-service and annual trainings, as well as conduct on-the-job training with probationary detention officers. The Training Lieutenant ensures compliance with state regulations, departmental policies, and best practices in detention operations.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Assists the Training Manager in developing, implementing, and evaluating training programs.  

• Deliver training to new hires and current staff, including orientation and in-service instruction, and conduct competency testing.  

• Maintain accurate training records and certifications. 

• Monitor staff performance, identify training needs, provide guidance, and offer mentorship. 

• Establish and maintain an on-the-job training program for new detention center officers. 

• Maintains contact with S.C Criminal Justice Academy and various correctional organizations to ensure training information is correct and up to date. 

• Assist in the coordination of annual training needs, update and assist the Training Manager with the Field Training Officer Program.  

• Assist with incident response and provide leadership support to officers when needed. 

• Perform other duties as required. 

Qualifications and Requirements: 

• Degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, or a related field and 2 years of correctional/law enforcement experience OR 8 years of correctional/law enforcement experience without a degree. 

• Specific Skills certifications, or the ability to obtain required certifications within 1 year. 

• Experience in staff training or curriculum development. 

• Excellent communication, organization, planning, and leadership skills. 

Updated version proposed below:  

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS 

The purpose of the Detention Center Training Lieutenant class is to coordinate, oversee, and participate in the delivery of training programs for detention center staff. This position serves as an intermediate supervisor within the training division, providing leadership to training personnel and ensuring that training activities are effectively planned, scheduled, and delivered in compliance with local, state, and federal requirements. The Training Lieutenant instructs, trains, and supervises new hires and detention center staff, including conducting in-service and annual training and overseeing on-the-job training for probationary officers. The position assists the Training Manager with program development, evaluation, and administration while supporting daily instructional activities. Work is performed within established guidelines with considerable responsibility for coordinating training functions and implementing program objectives under general supervision. 

ESSENTIAL TASKS 

• Assists the Training Manager in developing, implementing, and evaluating training programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards.  

• Instructs, trains, and supervises new hires and detention center staff, including orientation, in-service, and annual training; conducts competency testing to ensure required standards are met.  

• Establishes, maintains, and oversees the on-the-job training (OJT) program for probationary detention officers, ensuring effective skill development and job readiness.  

• Supervises training staff and activities, including assigning and reviewing work, maintaining standards, and providing guidance and mentorship to support staff performance and development.  

• Assists in planning, scheduling, and coordinating training programs, including annual training requirements and updates to the Field Training Officer (FTO) program.  

• Monitors staff performance, identifies training needs, and recommends program improvements based on evaluation results and operational demands.  

• Maintains accurate training records, reports, and certifications in accordance with departmental and accreditation requirements.  

• Maintains working relationships with the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and other correctional organizations to ensure training programs remain current and compliant with industry standards.  

• Participates in the development of training materials and delivers classroom and practical instruction as needed.  

• Responds to incidents and provides leadership support to detention staff to ensure safety, security, and effective operations.  

• Prepares reports and correspondence related to training activities and program performance.  

• Performs administrative duties, attends training and meetings, and maintains required certifications. 

• Performs other duties as assigned. 

VOCATIONAL/EDUCATIONAL AND EXPERIENCE PREPARATION 

• A degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field with at least two (2) years of experience in correctional or law enforcement settings.  

• Alternatively, a high school diploma or GED with a minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience in correctional or law enforcement. 

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES:  

• Must successfully complete the three-week SCCJA Basic Detention course to obtain Class 2 Law Enforcement Officer Certification. 

• Must obtain SCCJA Specific Skills or Basic Instructor Certification within the required timeframe. 

• Must obtain specialized instructor certifications for Firearms, Defensive Tactics, or other approved training courses. 

• Train the Trainer certification is required or must be obtained within one year of employment. 

• Must possess CPR / First Aid certifications. 

• Must possess a valid state driver’s license. 

• Must meet other requirements as set forth in applicable South Carolina statutes and regulations. 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:  

• Requires a minimum of four (4) years of corrections experience with no degree, or two (2) years with a relevant degree.  

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey information to staff at all levels. 

• Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple training programs and ensure they are delivered efficiently and effectively.