Juvenile Justice Youth Development Specialist I, Western 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, 7-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 successfully work in this fast-paced, ever-changing environment. They 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. JJYDS I’s also act as positive role models and advocates for youth working toward re-entry into the community.

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.

Working Conditions

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. This is a 24/7 facility. You will be required to work nights, holidays, and weekends, including forced overtime. Travel may be required for training purposes.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 21 years.
• Capacity to establish a 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.

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 before the candidate is hired.

Education

Applicants must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Based on assignment, incumbents may be required to possess a current and valid motor vehicle driver’s license at a class level specific to assignment.

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.

Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. The Commonwealth provides a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Pay

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with the internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For this position, the salary is $54,389.14.