Policy Analyst

Full Job Description

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.

JOB PURPOSE:

The Policy Analyst develops, reviews, and revises agency policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role conducts research, analyzes data, and collaborates with stakeholders to create effective, evidence-based policies that enhance operations, support strategic goals, and promote accountability across the organization.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Create, review, and update policies and procedures to ensure clarity, accuracy, and alignment with federal, state, and agency regulations, maintaining relevance to operational needs.

Manage the documentation of policies, revisions, and supporting materials in an organized manner while adhering to established project timelines and deadlines.

Work effectively with internal departments, legal advisors, and external stakeholders to gather input, align policies with agency goals, and ensure comprehensive implementation.

Use process mapping techniques to analyze and streamline workflows, ensuring policies are practical, efficient, and support operational improvements.

Stay informed of changes in laws, regulations, and organizational priorities, proactively updating policies and procedures to maintain compliance and meet emerging needs.

Performs other related job duties as assigned.

Requirements

STATE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

A bachelor’s degree and relevant program experience are required.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Strong ability to draft, review, and revise policies, procedures, and guidelines in alignment with federal, state, and agency standards.

Proficiency in conducting detailed research and analysis to support evidence-based policy recommendations.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.

Capability to manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with policy management or document control software.

Travel required to DJJ offices and facilities.

This position performs job duties relating to the custody, control, transportation, or recapture of youth within the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (SCDJJ), and the employee may have direct and indirect contact with youth within the jurisdiction of SCDJJ. Training applicable to these duties will be provided.

Qualifications

PREFERRED AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:

A bachelor’s degree in public administration, Criminal Justice, English, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field, along with at least two years of professional experience in policy writing, research, regulatory compliance, program analysis, or process mapping. Experience in juvenile justice, corrections, or government agency operations is highly desirable.

Additional Information

The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Health, dental, and life insurance
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days of sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• State retirement plans and deferred compensation programs
• Discount Programs such as TicketatWork and WeSave

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.