Juvenile Correctional Officer

Role Overview

The Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) offers opportunities across Youth Development Campuses and Regional Youth Detention Centers throughout the state. Correctional career paths include Juvenile Correctional Officer I, Juvenile Correctional Officer II, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain.

What the Job Involves

This position supports the safe, structured, and secure care of committed youth while contributing to their rehabilitation. The role includes monitoring juvenile offenders, keeping facilities orderly, and maintaining overall control within the environment. The work is challenging and calls for a mature, dependable, and disciplined approach.

Certification Requirement

All juvenile correctional roles within DJJ are certified peace officer positions. Selected applicants must complete DJJ's training academy and meet the standards required for certification through the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• Only U.S. citizens are eligible.
• No felony record is allowed.
• A valid driver's license must be provided with the application.
• Applicants must pass a background check, pre-employment drug screening, and physical examination.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit a State of Georgia application online. In addition, applicants may visit any DJJ secure facility in person from Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

For Juvenile Correction Officer I, candidates must achieve a passing score on the P.O.S.T.-approved COMPASS Test. The exam is administered by the Georgia Technical College System and must be scheduled in advance. Applicants should contact a technical college in the state to arrange testing.

A completed P.O.S.T. Examination Access Form must be taken to the testing location.

Test Exemption

Applicants who already hold a four-year degree from an accredited college or university, or who have previously earned POST certification, do not need to take the COMPASS test. To qualify for this exemption, a copy of the degree or POST Profile must be included with the application.

Military Salary Incentive

DJJ provides a one-time salary increase incentive for current or former military service members applying to eligible roles, provided they have served on active duty and received an Honorable Discharge. The amount of the incentive is tied to the number of active-duty years completed.

Exam Fee

The COMPASS exam carries a fee of $15.00 to $25.00, which is collected by the college. Test results may also be used for admission into the Technical College System of Georgia.

Closing Note

This role offers the chance to build a meaningful career in juvenile justice.