Youth Worker - Residential Services

Circuit Court of Jackson County•Kansas City, MO

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This position ensures the safety and security of youth, assists in the execution of established youth treatment and service goals, and court orders. The role involves supervising, assisting, and monitoring youth activities, documenting behavior and incidents, and executing individual components of treatment and service plans. Responsibilities also include traveling to various locations, transporting youth, monitoring visits, conducting room checks, attending meetings and training, and performing related duties.

Requirements

Ability to operate a motor vehicle, including court vans, safely and prudently.
Ability to supervise, motivate, and discipline youth with behavioral problems.
Ability to remain calm and in control in emergency or stressful situations.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and prepare clear, complete, and logical reports.
Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to restrain youth in a physical confrontation.
Ability to work and relate positively toward individuals from diverse backgrounds and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to project a positive role model.
Ability to install/detach surveillance equipment using a variety of small hand tools.
High School diploma or equivalent.
One year of work experience (not necessarily related).
Minimum age requirement of 25 years old.
Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license from state of residence and provide proof.
Possess and maintain state-mandated auto liability insurance and a properly licensed/reliable vehicle, and provide proof.
Must be able to successfully pass a physical exam/physical abilities performance test.
All candidates selected for employment will be subject to background screenings.
Ability to work different shifts and different days, including mandatory overtime, is considered an essential job function.

Nice To Haves

Certain positions may also require additional checks, including but not limited to education verification, child abuse and neglect clearances, drug screenings, and physical assessments, as applicable to the responsibilities of the role.

Responsibilities

Directly supervise and monitor daily activities of youth, including school, recreation, meals, personal hygiene, sleep, work projects, and suicide watch.
Document youth behavior, activities, rule infractions, incidents, and other occurrences and information in a narrative or report form.
Ensure residential facility surroundings are safe and secure for residents and staff, taking appropriate action to correct deficiencies, including using force to prevent injury, escape, or property destruction.
Help youth respond constructively to treatment and service, and assist in developing and stabilizing personal and social adjustment skills (e.g., anger control, positive peer and family interaction, personal hygiene, grooming, discipline).
Counsel youth individually and in groups regarding problems and approaches related to personal and social adjustment skills.
Provide written and oral input regarding youth progress, behavior, rule infractions, and skills.
Perform related work as required, including serving on teams, committees, cross-training, and working on special projects.
Provide guidance and assistance to youth in daily activities to develop and improve coping and competency skills and modify attitude and behavior patterns.
Work with community resources to identify and implement youth work programs and projects.
Perform body searches of youth, hand out medication, and mediate disagreements between youth.
Work schedule assignments necessary to meet the court's obligation to provide for the needs of juvenile residents, including mandatory overtime.
Assist in the planning and implementation of individual treatment plans.
Transport youth and make home, school, and other field visits in a personal or court vehicle.
Attend work-related meetings and training.
May install and detach electronic surveillance equipment at youth’s residence.
May monitor youth’s activities through surveillance equipment or phone calls.
Conduct residential facility room checks and monitor youth behavior to prevent disturbances or escapes.
Search facility and grounds for missing youth.