Juvenile Corrections Officer

Spokane County

12d • Onsite

About The Position

The position allocated to this class is an entry-level position responsible for the health and welfare, safety and security of juveniles detained at the Juvenile Detention Center. Duties include supervising, monitoring, and providing care for juvenile offenders and other court-involved youth in a confined, 24-hour maximum security facility. Work is assigned, scheduled and evaluated under the general direction of Detention Shift Supervisors and in conjunction with the Juvenile Court Management team.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• One (1) year working in adult corrections or with youth in a setting such as detention, probation/parole, residential care, recreation, education, community center, institutional, counseling, or a related area required.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Washington Driver’s License.
• Applicants selected for Juvenile Corrections Officer positions will be required to successfully complete the two (2) week Washington State Criminal justice Training Commission Corrections Officer Academy within the first six (6) months after appointment or within their probationary period.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Washington State Food Workers Card.
• First Aid, CPR and AED certification required.
• Must be at least 21 years of age at time of hire, and successfully pass a criminal background check, polygraph test, physical examination, physical abilities test, and drug test.
• Knowledge of group and individual behavior patterns of youth.
• Knowledge of the juvenile justice system.
• Skilled in basic computer word processing and data entry.
• Skilled in group dynamics, diplomacy and persuasion.
• Skilled in writing clear, concise and accurate documentation.
• Ability to read, comprehend and enforce, in a positive manner, facility rules and regulations;
• Ability to intervene in a crisis situation and use physical restraint to restore order and calm residents.
• Ability to communicate orally with youth and parents in a manner that will gain their respect and confidence.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with staff, all elements of the criminal justice system, social and community agencies and the public.
• Ability to follow established policies and procedures.
• Ability to be a positive role model to detained youth and convey a professional image in appearance and demeanor.
• Ability to strictly adhere to professional boundaries, Juvenile Court and County policies and procedures.
• Ability to adapt to shift work, including day, evening and weekend hours.

Responsibilities

• Serves as a positive role model for juveniles detained at the center.
• Leads group and individual discussions; teaches classes to encourage law abiding behavior; reports on behavior of youth; and works in coordination with Probation staff, Medical and Treatment staff, Teachers, Community Agencies, Judges, Prosecutors and Defense Attorneys.
• Searches (pat downs and strip) and removes personal property.
• Reviews social files and gathers information to establish criteria for admittance or release from detention; and completes the appropriate forms.
• Contacts parents, guardians, caseworker, probation counselor or parole counselor; and consults with supervisor on releases and shift problems.
• Provides orientation on facility rules and regulations.
• Provides for health, safety and recreation needs of juveniles in the Juvenile Detention Facility.
• Checks security of building, doors and windows; and maintains the safety and security of juveniles while detained.
• Oversees youth movement, including meals, showers, room clean up, school, physical training and recreational activities while maintaining safety and security for youth and staff.
• Provides positive individual and group supervision of juveniles participating in programming and attending to their needs.
• Escorts youth to and from court while providing security in court.
• Follows medical orders when dispensing medication to juvenile offenders.
• Speaks with and de-escalates youth in crisis while maintaining safety and security; intervenes in emergency or crisis situations; and uses physical restraint as necessary to restore order.
• Maintains and submits written documentation of all incidents concerning youth.
• Performs janitorial and maintenance tasks related to maintaining physical condition of building; and performs laundry duties.
• Performs admission and release functions; and maintains records.
• Serves and occasionally prepares meals; and orders kitchen food and cleaning supplies.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

Benefits

• Total compensation is an estimate based upon base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave).
• Community Impact: Many people find fulfillment in public service, knowing their work has a positive impact on the lives of Spokane County residents.
• Diverse Job Opportunities: Spokane County employs a diverse workforce, offering positions in fields such as law enforcement, social services, animal control, parks and recreation, administration, and more.
• Job Stability and Benefits: Spokane County offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including healthcare, vacation time, and retirement and pension plans that provide long-term financial security for employees.
• Career Growth: There are various opportunities for career advancement within Spokane County. We invest in employee training and professional development, enhancing employees' skills and qualifications.
• Work-Life Balance: We emphasize work-life balance, with reasonable work hours and policies that support employee well-being.
• Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees