Youth Specialist/Deputy Juvenile Officer I - Juvenile Detention

Position Overview

The Youth Specialist/Deputy Juvenile Officer I position is a professional role responsible for the supervision, safety and security of each juvenile in the Clay County Juvenile Detention Center. The employee is expected to enforce all policies and procedures at all times. The employee is expected to work with some degree of independence. Designation as a Deputy Juvenile Officer or Youth Specialist is determined by experience. Full and part-time positions are determined by availability, as are day or evening shift assignments.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct Supervision: Ensure the constant safety and personal conduct of youth through "Awareness Supervision" (always being able to see and hear residents).
• 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 structured recreational activities and provide programming services.
• Health & Safety: Dispense 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 working in secure care. 
• Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organization skills and prioritization of responsibilities and the ability to maintain professional boundaries.
• 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.