Juvenile Detention Officer - Lead

Pierce County•Tacoma, WA

10h•$2,025•Onsite

About The Position

Pierce County Juvenile Court is an innovative leader in the youth justice field, recognized nationally for its reform policies, practices, and programs. The court is a partner with the Annie E. Casey Foundation in Probation Transformation and is committed to addressing systemic racism and improving outcomes for all community members, especially BIPOC children, families, and marginalized communities. This role offers an opportunity to be on the front line of change, preparing young people for successful transitions into adulthood and advocating for systemic improvements. The position values leadership with compassion, listening, supporting, empowering, providing resources, and advocating for young people and families, welcoming diverse perspectives and talents. The guiding principles include practicing gratitude, valuing differences, maintaining a growth mindset, choosing courage over comfort, and practicing authenticity. Success is measured by the ability to build positive relationships, coach, teach, and mentor young people while maintaining boundaries, prioritizing safety and security through behavioral management and de-escalation techniques. A trauma-informed and compassionate approach, critical thinking, challenging assumptions, combating bias, and cultural humility are essential. The role also requires responding through a trauma-informed and anti-racist lens, with mindfulness to manage secondary trauma. Opportunities for professional development, leadership, and training exist within this evolving justice system.

Requirements

Must meet the recruiting requirements of the Juvenile Detention Officer 2 classification and have satisfactorily completed the probationary period; or completion of 2 years of post high school education in the social sciences, corrections, or related field AND two years of experience in the guidance, discipline, and supervision of detainees in a correctional setting.
Must have satisfactorily completed the Training Academy at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission.
A valid Washington State driver’s license is required.
Physical strength and agility necessary to subdue and restrain physically abusive juveniles is required.
Satisfactory physical condition, as evidenced by a County approved physical examination is also required.
Must maintain a current phone number or message phone.

Nice To Haves

Additional education or experience may substitute for the recruiting requirements.

Responsibilities

Performs supervisory functions in the absence of the regular Juvenile Detention Supervisor.
Explains and interprets policies and procedures to line staff; assigns, directs, and reviews work as needed; and responds to and resolves problem situations.
Performs lead worker duties and assists Detention Supervisors.
Provides advice and guidance to line staff.
Performs special projects and investigates in-house incidents as assigned.
Provides input regarding performance evaluations.
Performs the job functions of Juvenile Detention Officers.
Duties may include, but are not limited to supervising youths in a residential unit, control responsibilities, and supervising, planning, and organizing the involvement of youth in recreational activities.
Assists in resolving and providing advice regarding the behavioral problems of youth by using problem solving and anger management techniques.
Ensures proper use of physical restraint.
May investigate escapes, injuries, and other incidents, and prepares appropriate written format.
Provides training to other detention staff.
Provides ongoing advice and guidance in behavior control techniques.