Detention Specialist

Prince William County GovernmentPrince William County, VA
Onsite

About The Position

The Prince William County Office of Youth Services is seeking to hire a highly motivated person for a Detention Specialist position at the Juvenile Detention Center (JDC) located in Manassas on Rt. 234. JDC provides secure custody to juveniles between the ages of 12-20 who are criminally charged and awaiting court adjudication, or awaiting transfer to another facility or an appropriate placement. This position is assigned to the male dorm. Therefore, for this role, we are seeking qualified male applicants. Female applicants are welcome to apply for future vacancies assigned to the female dorm. If you believe you can make a difference in someone's life and can demonstrate good decision-making skills and excellent personal judgment, then you will find this job personally and professionally rewarding. This position qualifies for a $5,000 hiring bonus. This bonus will be paid in two equal installments. The first installment of $2,500 is payable after ninety (90) days of employment have been completed. The final $2,500 installment will be due upon completion of the probationary period.

Requirements

  • Ability to work independently and make decisions based on established policies and procedures.
  • Commitment to modeling positive decision-making skills and guiding youth to make better choices.
  • Ability to perform physical restraints when necessary, using the "Handle with Care" techniques.
  • Basic computer skills and the ability to utilize basic monitoring equipment such as video cameras and handheld radios.
  • High school diploma or G.E.D.
  • 1 year of experience working and/or volunteering with youth in any of the following areas: recreation, human services, security, military, law enforcement or secure residential setting.
  • Must pass local, state and federal background checks.
  • Must pass a pre-employment physical/physical fitness test.
  • Must pass a Child Protective Services record check.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a safe driving record.
  • Must pass DMV Record check.
  • Must be able to work any shift.
  • Must be able to work overtime.
  • Must be able to get to work in inclement weather.
  • Designated mandatory reporter of child abuse.
  • Must pass Handle With Care (HWC) training; CPR & First Aid certification; PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) training within 90 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience working with at-risk youth, preferably in a secure facility.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) speakers are encouraged to apply.
  • Knowledge of trends and practices for working with at-risk youth.
  • Experience working with at-risk youth in a secure setting.
  • Experience working in law enforcement or security.
  • Experience with implementing positive behavioral modification methods, pro-social engagement, progressive engagement, trauma-informed models, and experience with conflict resolution.
  • Experience teaching life skills, problem-solving, anger management, and decision-making.
  • Experience using physical restraint techniques such as "Handle with Care."
  • CPR/First Aid Certified.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise detainee activities during assigned shift.
  • Organize and supervise recreational, educational and life skills programs.
  • Conduct group activities on topics such as problem-solving, anger management and decision-making.
  • Enforce facility regulations, policies, and procedures, and recommend revisions to policies and procedures.
  • Monitor the facility to ensure safety and efficient operations.
  • Perform intake procedures to include completing intakes, releases, tracking court dates, and coordinating with other agencies.
  • Respond to disorderly youth when necessary.
  • Facilitate video conferencing for court hearings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the shift supervisor or Assistant Superintendent.

Benefits

  • Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
  • 401a and 457 retirement savings and investment plans
  • Paid Annual Leave
  • Paid Personal Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • Optional Group Medical and Dental Health Plans
  • Optional Group Life Insurance
  • An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Career Development Opportunities
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full-time positions.
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