Youth Specialist
About The Position
The Ohio Department of Youth Services is hiring a Youth Specialist (Juvenile Correctional Officer) at the Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility in Massillon, Ohio. The role oversees facility functions while providing mentorship, experience, and guidance to youth in the department’s care. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with a solid background and a passion for helping youth develop. The position is permanent and full-time at a 24/7 facility operating three shifts. New hires must complete six weeks of paid mandatory pre-service training: the first week at the facility, weeks two through four at the DYS Training Academy in Orient, Ohio, Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and weeks five and six as on-the-job training at the facility. Travel, lodging, and meals are provided for the academy training. Starting pay is $24.88 per hour, or $51,750 annually. The posting describes step increases beginning after six months and additional increases at specified employment milestones. Overtime assignments may provide additional earnings. The selected candidate must undergo a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening. The probationary period is 365 days.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid driver's license.
- Successfully complete the Juvenile Correctional Officer assessment.
- Be at least 21 years old at the time of application.
- Complete the required six weeks of paid pre-service training.
- Undergo a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening.
Responsibilities
- Provide safety, security, custodial care, and surveillance for assigned youth.
- Use provided training to observe youth behavior, intervene, and de-escalate behavior and conflicts.
- Manage and maintain security and positive interactions during and after family visits.
- Complete required documents, including reports, logs, and evaluations.
- Oversee movement on facility grounds and outside trips.
- Monitor and instruct youth on general housekeeping duties.
- Remain alert to unusual behavior and crisis situations.
- Collaborate with division leadership and provide information to them.
Benefits
- Medical coverage.
- Free dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums after the eligibility period.
- Paid vacation, personal leave, sick leave, and 11 paid holidays per year.
- Childbirth, adoption, and foster care leave.
- Education and development opportunities, including employee development funds and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
- Public retirement systems and optional deferred compensation.
- Travel, lodging, and meals provided for the required training academy portion of pre-service training.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
