Youth Specialist

Job Description

CLASSIFICATION DETAILS

DEPARTMENT:  Juvenile Justice Center

HIRING AUTHORITY:  Director

FLSA STATUS:  Non-exempt

EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP:  Just cause subject to probationary period

CURRENT HOURS AND STARTING TIME:  Full-time (40 hours per week) positions. The starting time for these positions will vary based on the assigned shifts. Evenings, weekends and holidays will be required for these positions.

GENERAL SUMMARY:

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.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND 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 restrains 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.

Operates an automobile while performing assigned job duties.

Works mandatory overtime as directed.

May transport residents to various locations for services.

Performs related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Education and Experience

• Possession of a high school diploma or a certificate of successful completion of the General Educational Development Test (GED)

Preferred Education and Experience

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

Required Licenses or Certifications

• Possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and an operable insured automobile for authorized travel

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES

Knowledge of:

• Human behavior
• Individual differences of ability, personality and differences
• Potential behavior problems of children
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word
• Principles and processes for providing customer service

Skill in:

• Active listening
• Critical thinking
• Judgement and decision making
• Social perceptiveness
• Service orientation

Ability to:

• Provide direction to residents in the completion of assigned tasks
• Communicate clearly
• Resolve conflict between residents
• Recognize and anticipate behavior and potential problems within the unit
• Effectively speak, write and understand the English language
• Effectively speak, write and understand a language other than English is preferred
• Understand and carry out oral and/or written instructions
• Accurately organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files
• Maintain the confidentiality of information
• Work independently
• Work in an environment which embraces the county’s Dignity Campaign

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS

• The work environment and exposures described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

N/S=Never/Seldom   O=Occasionally   F/C= Frequently/Continuously

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

N/S=Never/Seldom   O=Occasionally   F/C= Frequently/Continuously

 General Requirements and/or Disclaimers :

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties of personnel so classified.

Complies with P.A. 390, as amended, known as the State’s Emergency Management Act and the County’s Emergency Management resolution as well as all related plans, policies and procedures covered by these statutes.

Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

The Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM) – Juvenile Justice Center bargaining unit represents this position.   Therefore, there may be contract language which could require consideration in the selection process.