Youth Specialist

Macomb County Government • Castro Valley, CA

1d • $48,084 - $62,192 • Onsite

About The Position

Provides care, safety, and security of residents at the Juvenile Justice Center. Assists in the implementation of programs and work assignments. Observes and reports information relevant to residents’ behavior. This is a full-time (40 hours per week) position with varying starting times based on days, afternoons, or midnights shifts. The position is non-exempt and subject to overtime pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement or Human Resources and Labor Relations Policy. It is a just cause employment relationship subject to a probationary period.

Requirements

• Possession of a high school diploma or a certificate of successful completion of the General Educational Development Test (GED)
• Possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and an operable insured automobile for authorized travel
• Knowledge of human behavior
• Knowledge of individual differences of ability, personality and differences
• Knowledge of potential behavior problems of children
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word
• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer service
• Skill in active listening
• Skill in critical thinking
• Skill in judgment and decision making
• Skill in social perceptiveness
• Skill in service orientation
• Ability to provide direction to residents in the completion of assigned tasks
• Ability to communicate clearly
• Ability to resolve conflict between residents
• Ability to recognize and anticipate behavior and potential problems within the unit
• Ability to assist children with daily living and recreational activities and to effectively role-model, teach, and counsel children to encourage appropriate behavior while maintaining professional boundaries
• Ability to work in an environment which embraces the county’s Dignity Campaign
• Ability to effectively speak, write and understand the English language
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and/or written instructions
• Ability to accurately organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files
• Ability to maintain the confidentiality of information
• Ability to work independently

Nice To Haves

• An Associate Degree in Psychology, Sociology, Criminal Justice or a related field from an accredited college or university
• Previous experience working with adolescent youth

Responsibilities

• Assists in the implementation of programs designated by the Director.
• Ensures that assigned residents are appropriately dressed, fed and that all work assignments are completed in a timely manner.
• Controls or physically manages residents engaged in violent or disruptive behavior that weigh in excess of one hundred (100) pounds.
• Oversees, referees, demonstrates and supervises various activities, including recreational activities and work assignments.
• Observes and reports information relevant to residents’ behavior.
• Enters case information into a computerized software system and generates reports as directed.
• Works mandatory overtime as directed.
• May transport residents to various locations for services.
• Operates an automobile to perform job functions.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• No monthly premium to employees for single, two (2) person or family coverage
• Health care, dental and vision benefits are effective the first day of employment.

What This Job Offers

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