0000002758.DETENTION INTERVENTION SPECIALIST.JUVENILE-TJPC - STATE AID

About the Role

Provides for the safe and secure daily operation of the Dallas County Juvenile Detention Center by implementing a quality behavior intervention management program to assist youth assigned to Safety Based and Disciplinary Seclusion sections in Detention Services.

Responsibilities

• Assess youth by evaluating current behavior to determine appropriate placement.
• Conducts verbal check-ins to assess youth’s emotional state; records, confirms and explains decision of placement.
• Makes decisions based on evaluation to release youth from safety-based or any other type of seclusion.
• Provides onsite coverage seven days a week in the behavioral management section during program hours and is assigned to youth.
• Determines appropriate sanctions and incentives to modify resident behavior according to established guidelines and Behavior Management Program procedures.
• Records and submits the required documentation to include incident and statistical reports.
• Recommends appropriate referrals for case consultation with clinical staff and detention response team, and develops and recommends plans to directly address the behavioral needs of the youth.
• Diffuses disruptive/destructive behaviors through intervention and regulation skills whenever needed.
• Plans and implements development for staff, including new staff orientation in coordination with the management team.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Education, Social Work, Behavioral Science, or in a job-related field of study. One (1) year of work-related experience.

Special Requirements / Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Skilled in the use of standard software applications.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments and the general public.
• Requires knowledge of local, state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to behavior intervention of children in a secure environment.
• Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license, with a good driving record.
• Must pass an extensive background investigation.
• Mandatory drug testing prior to employment, and will be subject to random, unannounced drug and/or alcohol testing during employment.
• Position requires working with juveniles who may have committed dangerous/aggressive acts; should possess a high tolerance for working in an emotionally demanding/stressful work environment.
• An employee may be transferred to another department, shift, location, or facility based on the needs of the Department.
• Working in a 24‑hour facility may make the employee subject to working mandatory overtime or remaining on duty and working all, or a part of, an additional shift (“double shift”).
• The incumbent is / may be considered to be ‘essential personnel’ subject to being held over or called back to a work location or alternate site at all times. When required, you will be notified by your supervisor.
• Must be at least 21 years of age (for applicable positions) and must pass all portions (physical/written) of the Juvenile Academy to continue employment or all standards related to PREA and Ethics for specific positions.

Physical/Environmental Requirements

• Standard office environment within a secured facility.
• Requires the ability to restrain and/or chase youths.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Must be able to visit various off‑site locations.