SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST - JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER

La Crosse County • La Crosse, WI

4d • Onsite

About The Position

This position provides direct care, supervision, and support to youth residing in the County’s juvenile detention center or shelter facility. Staff are responsible for ensuring safety, fostering youth development, and implementing program activities in compliance with Wisconsin D.C.F. 59 and DOC 346 State Statutes, as well as facility policies and procedures. This role requires maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive environment while consistently modeling positive behavior and upholding professional standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Availability to work varied shifts and remain onsite for 8–16 hours.
• Completion of 160-hour Secure Detention Officer Certification within the first year; must maintain annual 24-hour recertification.
• Must pass reference checks, physical evaluation, drug screen, and criminal background check (no felony convictions).
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Adolescent Services Workers of the same gender as the youth population must be on duty in living areas.

Nice To Haves

• Preference for post-secondary education in criminal justice, human services, or a related field.
• Prior experience in juvenile justice, corrections, or human services preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct youth intake and admission procedures, including documentation, legal paperwork, and property inventory.
• Supervise and monitor youth during meals, recreation, education, chores, and structured programming.
• Observe, document, and report youth behaviors, concerns, and progress using case management systems.
• Provide emotional support and teach self-regulation and positive coping strategies.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly facility environment; assist with meals, laundry, and housekeeping.
• Respond to emergencies with appropriate interventions, including crisis management, evacuation, and CPR.
• Attend required trainings and meetings; maintain compliance with all state and program requirements.
• Uphold confidentiality and demonstrate professional, respectful communication with youth, families, and staff.

Benefits

• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS)
• Countywide insurance plans plus growing access to local, no-cost care options for everyday health needs.
• Two dedicated banks of vacation and sick time.
• Start earning vacation and sick time your very first day.
• Bank up to 2× your annual vacation accrual.
• Build up to 150 sick days as a full time employee.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED