Youth Specialist

State of Ohio • Circleville, OH

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Ohio Department of Youth Services is seeking a Youth Specialist for the Circleville Juvenile Correctional Facility. The role oversees facility functions and provides mentorship, experience, and guidance to youth in the department’s care. Youth Specialists help maintain safety and security while supporting positive interactions and working to habilitate youth.

The position is permanent, full-time, and based at a 24/7 facility operating on 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, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with meals provided), and weeks five and six as on-the-job training at the facility. The role has a 365-day probationary period. The stated hourly pay range is $24.88–$32.73, with annual pay listed from $51,750 to $68,078. Starting pay is described as over $50,000 per year, and two overtime assignments per week may add an additional $30,000 per year. New Youth Specialists receive their first pay increase after six months.

The final candidate must undergo a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening. Criminal convictions do not necessarily preclude consideration; applicants’ records are individually assessed. The department is a qualifying employer for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

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 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 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 outside trips.
• Monitor and instruct youth on general housekeeping duties.
• Remain aware of unusual behavior and crisis situations.
• Collaborate with division leadership and provide relevant information.

Benefits

• Medical coverage.
• Free dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums after completion of the eligibility period.
• Paid time off, including 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 deferred compensation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED