Youth Specialist/Deputy Juvenile Officer I - Group Home

Youth Specialist/Deputy Juvenile Officer I

The Youth Specialist/Deputy Juvenile Officer I is a professional role dedicated to providing direct care, supervision, and rehabilitative treatment to youth in Clay County's juvenile programs. You will work within a treatment team to implement individual and group plans, ensuring the safety and security of residents while mentoring them toward productive community reintegration.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct Supervision: Ensure the constant safety and personal conduct of youth through "Awareness Supervision" (always being able to see and hear residents).
• Rehabilitative Treatment: Implement group and individual treatment plans, facilitate activities, and teach life skills and conflict resolution.
• Behavioral Management: Observe and report behavioral conditions, maintain detailed records, and intervene in crises using approved de-escalation or physical restraint techniques when necessary.
• Support Services: Coordinate recreational activities, assist with educational plans, and transport youth to predetermined locations.
• Health & Safety: Assist with dispensing medications and respond to medical emergencies (CPR/First Aid).

Minimum Qualifications

• Age: Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Note: Higher pay or advancement to Deputy Juvenile Officer I requires a Bachelor's degree. Preference given to candidates with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or Social Work.
• Experience: Preference given to candidates with experience in group work involving direct interaction with children/youth (ages 7–17) in schools, residential care, or recreational programs.
• Skills: Excellent communication, empathy, and the ability to maintain professional boundaries under high-stress situations.
• Requirements:
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must pass a comprehensive drug screening, background investigation, and fingerprinting.
• Physical ability to respond to emergencies and perform restraints.

Why Clay County?

Government roles offer stability that the private sector often cannot match.

• The LAGERS Pension: A fully funded retirement plan (vested after 5 years). This is a rare, high-value benefit for full-time staff.
• Work-Life Balance: Accrue 2 weeks of vacation and 2.5 weeks of sick leave in your first year, plus 13 ½ paid holidays for full-time staff.
• Comprehensive Health: Medical, dental, and vision options, plus free life insurance for full-time staff.
• Growth: Tuition reimbursement and certification support available for long-term employees.
• Shift Differential Pay: When hours worked are between 4:00 P.M. through 8:00 A.M.