Watch Commander

Virginia Information Technologies Agency • Chesterfield, VA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Watch Commander is essential in ensuring the safety, security, and smooth operation of the facility while supporting staff development and compliance with standards. Responsible for overseeing the day-to-to operations of security. Provides supervision to the Assistant Watch Commander(s) to ensure a safe and secure environment for youth and staff. Ensures all written documentation is complete and accurate. Public-facing position that requires in-person, face to face work with the public to include staff and/or juveniles in our care. Requires in-person work with juveniles and/or their families.
Evaluative decision making; use of cognitive-behavioral interventions; crisis interventions; requires the ability to perform the physical restraint technique as prescribed by the Department; requires the ability to work a flexible shift; requires the ability to work-day and/or night shifts as needed; requires the ability to read and understand workplace policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Comprehensive knowledge of correctional security and administrative practices, principles, techniques, and coordination with other units within a secure residential setting.
• Considerable experience planning, directing and coordinating numerous security staff to maintain security related functions
• Ability to implement security functions and to coordinate with multi-disciplinary team members.
• Considerable knowledge of supervisory and management techniques, performance management, employee development, and security procedures.
• Progressively responsible corrections or law enforcement experience, part of which must have been at a supervisory level.
• Ability to perform the physical restraint technique as prescribed by the Department.
• Ability to work a flexible shift.
• Ability to work day and/or night shifts as needed.
• Ability to read and understand workplace policies and procedures.
• A valid driver’s license is required of DJJ employees to operate a state-owned or leased vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Oversees daily security operations, shift management, auxiliary posts, and supervises Assistant Watch Commanders to ensure proper staffing and coverage.
• Work independently; effectively communicate orally and in writing; prepare and review records and reports.
• Conflict resolution and crisis intervention.
• Coordinate with other units within a secure residential setting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently; effectively communicate orally and in writing; prepare and review records and reports.
• Ensures accurate documentation, serves as Administrator on Call, and maintains a flexible schedule to meet operational needs, including crisis response.
• Conducts daily security and unannounced PREA rounds, performs physical restraints per training standards, and coaches staff on use‑of‑force procedures.
• Participates in hiring processes, including screening applicants, developing interview questions, conducting interviews, and holding staff meetings.
• Collaborates with HR on performance management, including coaching supervisors, maintaining personnel files, tracking attendance, and preparing evaluations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed