SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST - JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER - PART TIME

La Crosse County • La Crosse, WI

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The 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.
• Verification of prior employment required under Wisconsin law.
• 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.
• Knowledge of Adolescent Development – Typical/atypical growth, emotional and social development.
• Knowledge of Trauma-Informed Care – Impact of ACEs, abuse, and neglect on youth behavior.
• Knowledge of Juvenile Justice System – DOC 346, PREA standards, court processes, and youth rights.
• Knowledge of Behavioral Management – Positive interventions, de-escalation, and crisis response.
• Knowledge of Cultural Competency – Respecting diversity of culture, race, gender identity, and socioeconomic background.
• Knowledge of Safety & Security – Emergency protocols, searches, contraband prevention, and facility operations.
• Knowledge of Health & Mental Health – Awareness of common diagnoses, suicide risk, and medication protocols.
• Knowledge of Case Management – Accurate record-keeping, progress notes, and incident documentation.
• Knowledge of Community Resources – Education, vocational, counseling, and re-entry supports.
• Skills in Clear and respectful communication with youth, families, and professionals.
• Skills in Conflict resolution and mediation of disputes.
• Skills in Strong observation and assessment skills to monitor risks and behavior.
• Skills in Crisis intervention techniques, verbal and physical if necessary.
• Skills in Ability to build trusting relationships with youth while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Skills in Group facilitation for structured activities and discussions.
• Skills in Organization and time management to handle routines and documentation.
• Skills in Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams (probation, mental health, education, law enforcement).
• Skills in Computer literacy for documentation and reporting.
• Abilities to Maintain professional boundaries while showing empathy and fairness.
• Abilities to Adapt to changing youth needs and facility operations.
• Abilities to Stay emotionally regulated in high-stress situations.
• Abilities to Make sound decisions quickly under pressure.
• Abilities to Demonstrate physical stamina for standing, walking, and emergency interventions.
• Abilities to Enforce rules consistently and fairly.
• Abilities to Protect confidentiality and uphold ethical standards.
• Abilities to Encourage youth mentorship, growth, and goal setting.
• Abilities to Identify risks and act with strong safety awareness.

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.

What This Job Offers

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