Juvenile Detention Officer I

About the position

To fulfill the mission of our facility, which is to provide short-term care of juveniles in secure custody who are accused of committing a crime or adjudicated pending further court action or awaiting transfer to another facility and who cannot be served in a less restrictive environment. Work involves processing incoming detainees, supervising daily activities and caring for the needs of juveniles in secure custody to ensure the welfare and safety of the detainee, staff and visitors. This position is responsible for housekeeping, assisting teachers, performing searches, administering first aid/CPR and dispensing over the counter and prescription medications, as well as counseling detainees to try to improve their behavior upon release. Candidates may be assigned to one of three shifts 7-3, 3-11, and 11-7 or as a Floater between two shifts. Candidates must be willing and available to work the assigned shift and up to 12 hours. The Juvenile Detention Officer I must obtain 40 hours of on-the-job training with an additional 120 hours of training in the first year of employment with 40 hours of annual refresher training required each year thereafter.

Responsibilities

• Processes incoming detainees according to established facility procedures.
• Effectively use positive reinforcement and natural consequences with all detainees.
• Effectively supervise detainees and employ knowledge and skills related to safety and emergency situations when needed (e.g., contraband, first aid, CPR, fire safety).
• Assist in the proper identification and treatment of problems related to the physical and emotional health and well-being of youth using knowledge and skills in various areas (e.g., medical and hygiene, substance abuse, physical or emotional abuse, sexual abuse, symptoms of suicidal behavior and emotional distress).
• Effectively handle situations that may arise from detainees dealing with mental health issues.
• Provide accurate and timely written documentation of situations and program activities through observation and recording skills.
• Creating an environment in which a youth's personal, social, or emotional problems can be openly discussed, explored, and possibly resolved through effectively using interpersonal relationship skills, communication and consultation with clinical staff, and leadership in group discussions or activities.
• Implementing, teaching and supplementing the facility's daily program and activities (e.g., physical education, recreation).
• Understanding, supporting, and using the philosophy, goals, values, policies, and procedures that represent the daily operations of the facility.
• Operates master control panel.
• Communicates by telephone and in person with law enforcement officials, probation officers, parents and the public.
• Dispenses over the counter and prescription medication.
• Monitors cells while youth are in cells.
• Participates in training for proper restraining techniques both verbally and physical.
• Maintains building, grounds and youth security by cleaning facility.
• Notifies Facilities and IT of issues that need to be repaired.
• Transport Juvenile's for medical appointments, etc., as required.
• Performs daily housekeeping duties.
• Performs all duties in a safe and efficient manner.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervision.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Be able to successfully complete 40 hours on the job training with an additional 120 hours of training in first year of employment and 40 hours annual refresher training each year thereafter.
• Must be willing to work shifts: 7 - 3, 3 -11, & 11 - 7.
• Valid Drivers' License.
• Experience working with youth in any form, ie: volunteering with an agency, religious group, etc.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in a Human Services field (i.e., Criminal Justice, Sociology, Social Work, Counseling).
• CPR certification, suicide prevention, and basic first aid.
• Experience working in a juvenile detention setting or working directly with youth.