Youth Services Specialist II

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of at-risk and detained youth? We have a career opportunity for you. The Loudoun County Juvenile Court Service Unit is seeking qualified candidates for Youth Services Specialist II positions serving the Youth Services Center located in Leesburg, VA. This new facility, which opened in Spring 2023, contains 2 different residential programs:

* Secure Juvenile Detention Center
* Less Secure Youth Shelter for court- involved youth.

Youth Services Specialists are responsible for the welfare, safety, and security of the youth at the facility. Positions may be available in either program. Loudoun County is recognized as one of the fastest growing counties in the United States and is known for its excellent quality of life and strong economy. Located approximately 40 miles west of Washington DC, Loudoun County offers a diverse blend of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities.

Loudoun County is seeking to hire an experienced individual for the position of Youth Services Specialist II for the Juvenile Detention Center (JDC), a 24/7 secure facility, and the RISE Youth Shelter, a less secure residential program, located in Leesburg, VA. Both residential programs provide short-term care for youth pending court hearings, serving a court sanction, and/or being placed for service provision. The Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is the regulatory agency that ensures the programs operate within state regulations.

The Youth Services Specialist II is a mid-career level position that primarily deals with youth but may also give guidance and direction to Youth Specialist I staff. The successful candidate will have some previous experience working with vulnerable youth, preferably in a residential setting. Candidates should possess general knowledge of human behavior, social and economic conditions, and the psychological and emotional needs of youth. Daily job responsibilities include supervision of youth in all daily activities, such as: recreational, educational, hygiene, meals, visitation, life skills and spiritual services; manage youths' behavior by the least restrictive means, utilizing coaching and conflict resolution skills to teach and promote pro-social behavior among the youth.??

The department aims to facilitate a top continuum of care for local vulnerable youth through programs emphasizing healthy and responsible behavior, personal accountability, family involvement, and community support.?

We are seeking individuals with:

Knowledge of juvenile detention programs, policies and procedures of the juvenile justice system, and behavior management techniques
Knowledge of counseling, social work principles, and mental health assessment techniques and treatments related to juvenile delinquents. Provide counseling, discipline, and physical intervention when necessary
Ability to effectively supervise residents in the Juvenile Detention Center and Youth Shelter.
Ability to adhere to County and residential program policies, procedures, and safety and security measures within the facility
Ability to accurately maintain paperwork associated with service plans and behavioral evaluations
Ability to establish rapport with youth while maintaining authority, express ideas clearly, and establish harmonious relationships
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with youth, staff, parents, other professionals, and the public
Ability to effectively maintain a calm composure and exhibit sound judgment in stressful situations
Ability to intervene effectively in crises
Ability to effectively set verbal and physical limitations during instances of aggressive, suicidal, or combative behavior
Ability to transport youth to court and appointments
Effective written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills dealing with sensitive issues
Ability to operate control room functions
Ability to conduct security checks, inspections, and searches
Ability to support other Youth Services programs as needed.
Additional duties may be assigned based on operational needs.
Ensuring the safety, health, and overall well-being of the youth
Ability to facilitate program activities
Ability to serve as a mentor
Utilizes automated management and security systems
Works in partnership with various county agencies

Must be at least 21 years of age. Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of related professional experience (with at least one (1) year at the level of a Youth Services Specialist I or its equivalent); or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience supervising youth in a residential program setting.
Experience interviewing youth, including observing, assessing, and documenting behaviors.
Experience with behavior management and crisis intervention.
Experience in applying safety and security principles and practices.
Experience interpreting and applying policies and procedures related to the Juvenile Justice System.
Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, Psychology, Sociology, or Social Work.

Must be able to complete First Aid, CPR for adults, and Handle with Care (physical intervention) within 90 days of hire. Must update certifications as needed.
Position is essential personnel, requiring on-site presence during inclement weather, emergencies or as required by Departement Director.
Must be able to work rotating shifts (day/evenings/overnights), including weekends and holidays, and able to work overtime when required to meet operational needs.
Must have the ability to use automated technology and be able to operate keyboard-driven equipment.
Requires occasional stooping, bending, and /or light lifting.

Employment is contingent on the satisfactory results of a background investigation to include criminal history and fingerprinting, child protective services, Department of Motor Vehicle record check, and physical exam with drug test and TB testing. Must maintain a current driver's license, CPR, First Aid, Crisis Intervention, and all other certifications and training required by policy and standards.