Youth Specialist
About The Position
The Ohio Department of Youth Services is hiring a Youth Specialist for the Circleville Juvenile Correctional Facility. The Youth Specialist oversees facility functions and provides mentorship, experience, and knowledge to youth in the agency’s care. The role focuses on safety, security, custodial care, and surveillance, while supporting youth habilitation and maintaining positive interactions. The position is permanent and full-time at a 24/7 facility with three shifts. New hires must complete six weeks of paid, mandatory pre-service training: one week at the facility, three weeks at the DYS Training Academy in Orient, Ohio, and two weeks of on-the-job training at the facility. The training academy portion runs Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with meals provided. Starting pay is $24.88 per hour ($51,750 annually), with scheduled increases beginning after six months. The posted hourly range is $24.88–$32.73. The employer notes that two overtime assignments per week could add an estimated $30,000 annually. The role is classified and represented by OCSEA. Candidates selected for the position must undergo a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening. Criminal convictions are assessed individually and do not automatically exclude applicants.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED, or equivalent of the stated minimum class qualifications.
- Valid driver's license.
- Successfully complete the Juvenile Correctional Officer assessment.
- Be at least 21 years old at the time of application.
- Complete six weeks of paid mandatory pre-service training.
- Undergo a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening if selected.
Responsibilities
- Provide safety, security, custodial care, and surveillance of assigned youth.
- Use provided training to observe, intervene in, and de-escalate youth 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 during outside trips.
- Monitor and instruct youth in general housekeeping duties.
- Remain alert to unusual behavior and crisis situations.
- Collaborate with division leadership and provide information to them.
Benefits
- Medical coverage.
- Dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums at no cost after completion of 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, including OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS, and optional Ohio Deferred Compensation.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
