Job Responsibilities With our Agency's mission to support the recovery of people with mental illnesses, we provide a complete array of medical and support services for children, adults, and families throughout South Carolina. Positions are in various locations (Columbia, SC/Richland County) within the Department of Mental Health, Public Safety Division, Columbia, SC 29203. Uncertified candidates starting salary: Minimum: $49,000.00 Certified Officers Class One: Minimum: $50,000.00 plus experience, education and training As a Public Safety Officer, you will patrol assigned areas to prevent crime and detect violations of law. Responds to complaints, reports of violations and requests for assistance. Responsibilities include but are not limed to: * You will issue warnings and citations to violators. * Apprehends and arrests violators. * Provides a safe environment for patients, visitors and employees. * Investigates traffic accidents; directs traffic and controls crowds. * Performs general police work such as maintaining order during emergencies, participating in vehicles and employees searches, be on alert for suspicious activities, drugs, thefts, contraband, and patient abuse. * Enforces traffic rules, regulations, and issues warnings, summons tickets, prepares written reports of all incidents and occurrences. * Testifies in court and other legal proceedings. * Keeps records and makes reports regarding activities. * Performs other related duties as assigned and needed. Minimum and Additional Requirements State Requirements : A high school diploma and ability to meet the requirement of Certification with the Criminal Justice Academy 12 weeks training as mandated by 23-23-40 within first twelve months of employment. A degree may be substituted for the work experience. Agency Requirements: Currently Certified as a Law Enforcement Officer (graduated 12 weeks Criminal Justice Academy in South Carolina, mandated by 23-23-40. One (1) year as a Certified Law Enforcement Officer with knowledge of SC Laws, or MP (former Military Police) or minimum one year in corrections, security, or law enforcement. You must pass pre-employment drug test, a psychological assessment and a physical to meet employment requirements. Have considerable knowledge of State Laws, rules, and regulations of the South Carolina Department of Mental Health. Candidates must meet the 20/20 vision standards or no more than 20/100 corrected to 20/20. Candidates must also be capable of distinguishing, without corrections three colors: green, yellow and red. Note: If any Agency Requirements are listed above, applicants must also meet those requirements to be considered for the position. Preferred Qualifications Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus. Additional Comments Employment in this position will be contingent upon the following: an acceptable review of your past employment history, personal references, cumulative sanction report, other sources, including, but not limited to, the criminal reference check which will be conducted by the South Carolina Department of Mental Health Public Safety Division; and receiving a clearance from the Child Registry Check that indicates no record of child abuse or neglect. Employment would also be contingent on your passing a pre-employment drug test. We reserve the right to rescind any employment offer in the event our review of your background develops information including opinions of previous employers or colleagues, which cause us to conclude, at our sole discretion, that you are not suited for the position. The South Carolina Department of Mental Health is an Equal Employment Opportunity Agency. We provide affirmative action and equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons regardless of race, color, sex - including the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, national origin, age, religion, or disability. South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions. Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. The South Carolina Department of Mental Health offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes: * Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children * 15 days annual (vacation) leave accrual per year * 15 days sick leave per year * 13 paid holidays * State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs