Djs Resources Specialist

State of Maryland•Somerset, MD

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The main purpose of the Resources Specialist is to coordinate and advise in the placement process for youth who are under the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Services. The Resources Specialist works directly with area staff regarding the needs of youth by providing expertise in treatment options, fiscal resources, availability of programs and program development; ensures that the provision of individualized services to youth are appropriate and efficient by identifying and procuring services that meet the needs of the youth in the least restrictive environment consistent with public safety and are fiscally responsible; participates in development of contracts, RFP’s and solicitations, program development and program monitoring. This is a highly responsible position with multiple roles requiring contacts with all levels of administration within and outside of the department. This position will cover the three lower shore counties of Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester. This position will involve recommending the appropriate level and type of services for specific youth, identifying suitable service providers, utilizing strategies based on budget and youth service needs, and identifying new programs and/or contracts to meet youth needs. This position will be a key asset to justice-involved youth court-ordered to participate in specific treatment programs and services to prevent juvenile recidivism. It will also support DJS Case Managers by providing guidance and critical insight into various treatment modalities designed to achieve favorable outcomes and reduce the length of juveniles' formal supervision. This position is eligible to work a hybrid telework schedule, based on department policy and protocols.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in the social or behavioral sciences or criminal justice from an accredited four year college or university.
Two years of experience providing case management services to emotionally or socially maladjusted, delinquent, victimized or exceptional juveniles in a community or residential setting.
Candidates may substitute possession of an Associate of Arts degree in the social or behavioral sciences or criminal justice from an accredited college or university and two years of experience providing direct services to children in a community or residential setting for the required education.
Candidates may substitute possession of a Master’s degree in the social or behavioral sciences or criminal justice from an accredited college or university for one year of the required experience.
Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in Social Services classifications or Social Services specialty codes in the Social Science, Psychology and Welfare field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience and education.
Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties may be required to possess a motor vehicle operator’s license valid in the State of Maryland.

Nice To Haves

Strong organizational and time-management skills
Proficiency with relevant software, tools, or systems (e.g., ASSIST, MDEC, Excel, Microsoft Word)
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Problem-solving and critical-thinking aptitude

Responsibilities

Identifies service options and recommendations expenditures for the treatment and care of juveniles while ensuring that those service options adhere to departmental protocols
Advises Case Managers and others, of available funding and services for the juvenile population
Conduct site visits to public and private facilities to keep abreast of program services and maintain informational resources