Unit Manager - Juvenile Probation

Lake County•Waukegan, IL

About The Position

The Unit Manager performs complex work directing a team, assigning work, evaluating performance, and managing team activities. The role requires knowledge of sustaining evidence-based practices, including Functional Family Probation, Effective Practices in Correctional Settings II, Attachment, Regulation, and Competency, Moral Reconation Therapy, and the Juvenile Risk Assessment. The position works under moderate supervision and generally follows an 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-to-Friday schedule. The manager leads juvenile probation officers, supports employee growth and development, reviews cases for compliance with court and department standards, and participates in training, employee development, community education, meetings, case staffing, and hiring-related activities. The manager regularly audits case files and notes to assess risk scoring, use of evidence-based practices, case planning, and work with clients to support successful outcomes. Duties may change, and additional responsibilities may be assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social services, or a related field.
At least two years of employment in Probation/Court Services.
At least two years of related experience; senior-level experience is preferred.
Apply to the AOIC for certification in a supervisory position; this certification is required by AOIC for promotion eligibility.
Be a citizen of the United States.
Be a resident of Illinois.
Have a valid driver’s license.
Pass a criminal background check and a child abuse registry check.
Pass a physical examination.
Advanced interpersonal, managerial, and leadership skills.
Strong understanding of the juvenile justice system, including applicable federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.
High emotional intelligence and strong verbal and written communication skills.
General knowledge of evidence-based practices in criminal justice.
Knowledge of applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Ability to use tact, discretion, initiative, and independent judgment within established guidelines.
Ability to prepare moderately complex documents using computer applications.
Ability to operate and routinely maintain general office machines, such as copiers, facsimile machines, and telephone systems.
Strong knowledge of administrative principles and practices, including goal setting and implementation.
Ability to research, compile, and summarize informational and statistical data and materials.
Collaboration and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with youth in a juvenile justice setting.
Senior-level experience.

Responsibilities

Lead a team of juvenile probation officers.
Design strategies and set goals for employee growth.
Train and develop employees.
Review, interpret, and evaluate cases to ensure compliance with court and department standards.
Participate in department training, employee development, and community education activities.
Attend meetings to stay current on laws and policies related to probation.
Evaluate employee work and take appropriate action in personnel matters.
Prepare correspondence and reports.
Attend case staffing and make recommendations.
Participate in interviews and make recommendations for hiring and transfers.
Regularly audit cases, including reviewing case notes and files for accurate risk assessment scoring, effective use of evidence-based practice modalities, appropriate case plans, and work that supports client success.