Juvenile Justice Youth Development Specialist I, Southeast Region - CONTINUOUS

About the role

The Department of Youth Services (DYS) is seeking dedicated and motivated individuals to fill the essential role of Juvenile Justice YDS I (JJYDS I). Selected candidates will work with juvenile justice-involved youth and young adults (most are 16–20 years old) in a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week locked residential facility. In this team-led environment, you will ensure the safety and security of the youth while offering the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and life skills needed to become responsible and independent adults.

JJYDS I’s are the front-line direct care staff ensuring the safety and security of youth committed to the care and custody of the Department. Selected candidates receive classroom and on-the-job training to ensure they can work in this fast-paced, ever-changing environment. You will observe the conduct and behavior of youth and take appropriate action as trained to prevent disturbances, assaults, or self-harm, ensure the safety of staff and youth, and ensure compliance with established policies, regulations, and procedures. You will also act as a positive role model and advocate for youth working toward re-entry into the community.

Through the highly accredited training academy, you will be trained in the core principles of juvenile justice rehabilitation, safety, and security. As a Juvenile Justice residential team member, you will have the opportunity to positively influence a young person’s life and develop the necessary skills for professional development and growth.

Responsibilities

• Observe: Monitor the conduct and behavior of youth and take appropriate action as trained to prevent disturbances or self-harm and ensure the safety of staff and youth in compliance with established policies, regulations, and procedures.
• Collaborate as part of a team: Oversee, supervise, and provide advocacy, guidance, encouragement, and support to the youth in their daily activities, which include classrooms and afternoon leisure/sports, mealtime, hygiene, and clinical sessions.
• Serve as a role model: Assist youth in developing coping, social, and life skills while providing guidance and support through daily interactions to facilitate their re-entry into the community.
• Maintain a safe and secure environment: Complete required program security measures, including but not limited to supervision rounds, head counts, indoor and outdoor security checks, and searches of youth and visitors.

Incumbents may be exposed to verbal and physical confrontations and potentially dangerous environments. In the event verbal de-escalation attempts are exhausted, you will be expected to use physical interventions to maintain safety and security in accordance with department policies. Travel may be required for training purposes.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum age of 21 years.
• Capacity to establish rapport with youth and staff from different ethnic, cultural, and/or socio-economic backgrounds.
• Ability to interact with people who are under physical and/or emotional stress.
• Capability to make decisions and act quickly in emergency and/or dangerous situations while remaining calm.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, weekends, holidays, and nights.
• Ability to take direction and work under the supervision and direction of a senior staff member.
• Applicants must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Upon hire, incumbents shall be required to complete and maintain a valid certification in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and first aid.

Pre-Hire Process

Candidates must pass a pre-employment screening that includes:

• Drug screening
• Psychological screening
• Medical examination
• Physical Abilities Test (PAT)

A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to hiring.

Schedule

This is a 24/7 facility. Employees in this position will be required to work nights, holidays, weekends, and forced overtime. Multiple shifts and varied schedules apply.