Unit Manager - Second Shift

Unit Managers are responsible for providing direction, assigning work, and managing the activities of staff in the Hulse Juvenile Detention Center. They coach, counsel, motivate and encourage staff members in their work, monitoring residents' behavior,  while supporting and guiding the juveniles in their care.   Unit Managers also participate in the daily living routine of the residents and are expected to be involved in any volatile resident situation(s).

Hours of Work

• Leads a team of dedicated, professional, juvenile counselors.
• Designs strategies and set goals for employee growth.
• Trains and develops employees.
• Participates in department training, employee development, and community education activities.

• Attends and participates in meetings to keep current on laws and policies regarding the field of juvenile justice.
• Evaluates the work of employees and takes appropriate action in personnel matters.   

• Prepares correspondence and reports.
• Attends case staffing and assists with recommendations.
• Participates in interviews and makes recommendations for hiring and transfers.  
• Regularly reads through the log as well as observes to ensure that officers are effectively using EBP modalities such as EPICS-II and Carey Guides,  and using de-escalation techniques, restraints, and room time in accordance with policy and best practice.
• Reviews all incident and room confinement reports for accurate grammar.
• Complete injury reports through Insight online.
• Complete timecards.
• Ensures policies and standards are being followed.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all required activities, duties, or responsibilities.  Duties, responsibilities, programs, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned.

• Advanced interpersonal, managerial, and leadership skills necessary to provide effective guidance to subordinate personnel and to develop cooperative working relationships with employees, management, appointed department heads, elected officials and vendors. 
• Strong understanding of the juvenile justice system including federal, state, local laws and ordinances related to the area of assignment. 
• Knowledge of best practice detention standards including Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice Detention Standards and the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts Detention Standards.
• High emotional intelligence. 
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing. 
• General knowledge of evidence-based practices in the field of juvenile justice including core correctional practices.
• Knowledge of applicable collective bargaining agreements. 
• Using tact, discretion, initiative, and independent judgment within established guidelines.  
• Able to prepare moderately complex documents utilizing various computer applications related to work. 
• Strong knowledge of administrative principles and practices, including goal setting and implementation.  
• Collaboration skills while working in a team environment.
• Ability to problem solve.

Education and/or Work Experience and Other Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social services, or a related field
• Must have two years of experience in Juvenile Detention setting. 
• Candidates for this position are required to have two years of related experience, preferably at a senior level.  
• Candidates must also apply to the AOIC for certification in a “Supervisory” position. This certification is required by AOIC for promotion eligibility. The following is a link to the required form: https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/documents-and-forms/employment-application/

Other Qualifications 

• Citizen of the United States  
• Resident of Illinois 
• Valid Illinois driver's license 
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check and a check of the child abuse registry.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Requires sedentary work involving standing or walking for brief periods, exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular basis; and some dexterity in operating machines, tools, or office equipment.
• Detention staff must have the ability to physically restrain a person who is uncooperative, combative or a danger to himself/herself or others.
• Must pass a physical exam 

Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefit package. Visit our Prospective Employee page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County!   

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre-employment medical exam. Only employees who have completed the probationary period are eligible for a transfer or promotion.

Salary : $79,619