Youth Facility Director

State of Louisiana•Bunkie, LA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice (OJJ) is committed to protecting the public by providing safe and effective individualized services to youth, who will become productive, law-abiding citizens. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as a Youth Facility Director and oversee the full operations of one of our secure care facilities. This role is critical to our mission and is responsible for directing all aspects of facility management, including youth care and custody, rehabilitation services, mental and medical health programs, staffing, safety, and community engagement. The Youth Facility Director also leads classification and diagnostic processes, develops institutional policies, coordinates with courts and community agencies, and ensures that youth with complex behavioral and developmental needs receive the support they need. If you are a strong leader with a passion for youth rehabilitation and public service, and you're ready to make a lasting impact, we invite you to apply. Join us at OJJ and help shape brighter futures for Louisiana’s youth.

Requirements

Eight years of experience in juvenile probation and parole, social services, counseling, or in a residential, correctional, behavioral health, or group home setting; OR Six years of full-time work experience in any field plus five years of experience in juvenile probation and parole, social services, counseling, or in a residential, correctional, behavioral health, or group home setting; OR A bachelor's degree plus five years of experience in juvenile probation and parole, social services, counseling, or in a residential, correctional, behavioral health, or group home setting; OR An advanced degree in criminal justice or a social sciences field, counseling, education, public administration, or business administration plus four years of experience in juvenile probation and parole, social services, counseling, or in a residential, correctional, behavioral health, or group home setting.
One year of the required experience must have been at the supervisory level or above.
Must not have been convicted or pled nolo contendere to a crime listed in R.S. 15:587.1 (c)
Must authorize the HR Office of Juvenile Justice to contact prior employers to check references under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) to be considered for employment.
Must take and pass a drug screening test.
Must possess a valid Louisiana Driver's License.
Must clear a background check.

Nice To Haves

Every 30 semester hours earned from an accredited college or university will be credited as one year of experience towards the six years of full-time work experience in any field. The maximum substitution allowed is 120 semester hours which substitutes for a maximum of four years of experience in any field.

Responsibilities

Direct and supervise facility operations including treatment, administration, security, recreation, food service, maintenance, education, and medical services.
Manage the facility budget and ensure adherence to agency policies, procedures, and ethical standards.
Lead implementation of the Louisiana Model (LaMOD) reform program, fostering a positive facility culture and professional integrity.
Administer comprehensive rehabilitation programs, including diagnostic processes, custody classification, and treatment planning for youth with diverse medical, psychiatric, and behavioral needs.
Maintain communication with courts, probation staff, families, and community stakeholders; respond to concerns and ensure collaborative service delivery.
Oversee staff development, training, and performance management; supervise interns and practicum students from colleges and universities.
Serve as 24/7 on-call leader, responding to emergencies such as escapes, behavioral crises, medical incidents, and natural disasters.