Youth Specialist
About The Position
The Youth Specialist provides care, safety, and security for residents at the Juvenile Justice Center. The role assists with implementing programs and work assignments, oversees resident activities, and observes and reports information about residents’ behavior. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, with starting times that vary across day, afternoon, or midnight shifts. Mandatory overtime may be required. The role may include transporting residents and operating an automobile to perform job functions. This position is represented by the Police Officers Association of Michigan bargaining unit and is subject to a probationary period. The work is primarily indoors, with frequent exposure to hostile or irate individuals, individuals with known violent backgrounds, and blood-borne pathogens. Physical demands include frequent sitting, standing, walking, running occasionally, and lifting or moving objects over 100 pounds frequently.
Requirements
- High school diploma or certificate of successful completion of the GED.
- Valid Michigan driver’s license and an operable, insured automobile for authorized travel.
- Knowledge of human behavior, individual differences in ability and personality, and potential behavior problems of children.
- Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word.
- Knowledge of customer-service principles and processes.
- Skills in active listening, critical thinking, judgment and decision-making, social perceptiveness, and service orientation.
- Ability to provide direction to residents, communicate clearly, resolve conflicts, and recognize and anticipate behavior and potential problems.
- Ability to assist children with daily living and recreational activities; role-model, teach, and counsel children to encourage appropriate behavior while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Ability to work in an environment that embraces the county’s Dignity Campaign.
- Ability to effectively speak, write, and understand English; understand and carry out oral and written instructions; organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files; maintain confidentiality; and work independently.
Nice To Haves
- Associate degree in Psychology, Sociology, Criminal Justice, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
- Previous experience working with adolescent youth.
Responsibilities
- Assist in implementing programs designated by the Director.
- Ensure assigned residents are appropriately dressed and fed and complete work assignments in a timely manner.
- Control or physically manage residents engaged in violent or disruptive behavior who weigh more than 100 pounds.
- Oversee, referee, demonstrate, and supervise activities, including recreation and work assignments.
- Observe and report information relevant to residents’ behavior.
- Enter case information into a computerized software system and generate reports as directed.
- Work mandatory overtime as directed.
- May transport residents to various locations for services.
- Operate an automobile to perform job functions.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage with no monthly premium for single, two-person, or family coverage.
- Health care, dental, and vision benefits effective on the first day of employment.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
