Job Abstract

If you are a female who finds working with at-risk youth a passion, then consider a position as a Detention Specialist with the Prince William County Office of Youth Services. Our Detention Specialists are the front-line staff working in the Molinari Juvenile Shelter which is a short-term residential program for boys and girls ages 10 to 17 who are in crisis and need temporary placement. This program affords a structured environment where residents can begin to address their problems. You will supervise the security and welfare of youth during their daily activities that include: school, recreation, meals, hygiene, life skills groups, and meetings with attorneys, court-services staff and other professionals. Most importantly, you will set an example for how to make positive choices and manage difficult situations through your own actions. It’s a tough job, but if you choose, you can be an important influence in the lives of youth.

Hiring Bonus - this position qualifies for a one-time cash signing bonus of $5,000 subject to availability of funds! This bonus will be paid in two installments and is subject to all applicable tax withholding and reporting requirements. The first installment of $2,500 is payable upon the County’s first regular pay date following your position start and the final $2,500 installment will be payable on the pay date following the completion of your probation. For more information about the Bonus, contact HR at TalentManagement@pwcgov.org.

ABOUT THIS ROLE:
In this role you will need to be responsible for ensuring the security and welfare of the juveniles in your care; organize and supervise recreational, educational and life skills programs; conduct group activities on topics such as problem solving, anger management and decision making; respond to disorderly youth and, when necessary, restrain youth who are involved in physical altercations; facilitate video conferencing for court hearings; and model positive decision-making skills and guide youth to making better choices.

To be successful you will need maturity, patience and a commitment to modeling positive behavior; experience working with at-risk youth, preferably in a secure facility; ability to work independently and make decisions based on established policy and procedure; ability to perform physical restraints when necessary, using the “Handle with Care” techniques; and ability to utilize basic monitoring equipment such as video cameras and radios.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
High school diploma or G.E.D. and 2 years of related experience.

PREFERENCES:

• Experience working with at-risk youth;
• Experience working in law enforcement or security;
• Experience teaching life skills, problem solving, anger management and decision-making;
• Experience using physical restraint techniques such as "Handle with Care."