What are the responsibilities and job description for the Youth Specialist I - Juvenile Detention Center Part Time - HR USE ONLY position at Oakland County, Michigan Government?
Overview & Benefits
Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.
When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.
For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:
https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire
General Summary
This job posting is for administrative and processing purposes only. Candidates should apply only if you have been directly instructed by HR to do so. Applications submitted without prior HR authorization will not be considered.
Salary: $22.02 - $28.73 per hour
This position is on-site.
Role
Do you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of youth who need support, structure, and guidance? As a Youth Specialist I at Oakland County Children’s Village, you will play a vital role in providing care, mentorship, and supervision to at-risk youth in one of three distinct programs:
What You’ll Do
Minimum Qualifications
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Observes the behavior of the residents through supervising the daily activities and ensure that all prescribed activities such as school, study, meal, and recreation time are carried out.
Interacts and communicates with at-risk adolescents residing at Children's Village.
Records daily behavior information of residents, and completes reports related to the operation of the facility. Ensures that behavior logs are maintained throughout shift, enabling the proceeding shift access to relevant information concerning the residents.
Promotes and assists residents with daily living skills such as personal hygiene, eating habits, and table manners. Ensures that sleeping, dressing and housekeeping activities are followed according to schedule.
Closely monitors residents at all times to ensure that all are present and/or accounted for. Assists in maintaining and enforcing rules and guidelines of the program.
Participates as part of the treatment team that develops and implements treatment plans for the residents.
Inspects living areas and sleeping quarters to ensure security is maintained and to detect possible trouble. These room/facility searches may require bending, squatting, and stretching for various lengths of time.
Provides crisis intervention that may include physically restraining and/or moving aggressive, uncontrolled, violent youths when necessary.
Responds to emergency situations in accordance with the facility's emergency code system which may include: medical emergencies, fights, self-abuse, suicide attempts, escapes, attempted escapes, assaults toward staff, destruction of property and riot control.
Upholds behavioral standards using prescribed procedures.
Responsible for the cleanliness of assigned unit and any equipment used in programs.
Drives vehicles, as necessary, to transport and/or escort residents to and from various appointments, such as court hearings, classes, other agencies, medical and dental appointments, and recreational events.
Observes residents for signs of illness, and carries out instructions of medical staff, including distributing medicines, to ensure that residents receive appropriate health care.
Additional Duties & Responsibilities
Instructs by demonstrating indoor/outdoor recreational, vocational, and work activities to foster development of residents' skills and sportsmanship.
Assists in admitting new residents to facility, following established rules and procedures.
Responsible for meal counts and records of food consumed in order to ensure accuracy and adherence to the Michigan Department of Education food funding regulations.
When directed, assists in searches for escapees/runaways from the facility.
Under direction, assists higher level personnel in ensuring that supplies are ordered in a timely fashion. Maintains inventory and accounting records as directed.
Performs public relations duties such as assisting in conducting tours of Children's Village, when assigned.
Essential Mental & Physical Requirements
Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
Ability to care for juveniles.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a typical juvenile residential setting.
Close contact with people who could become confrontational.
May participate in activities that require driving or being a passenger in an automobile.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.
Required Minimum Qualifications
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Must be a high school graduate or have a certificate of successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) Test.
Have passed his/her 21st birthday.
Have not been convicted of a felony violation involving harm or threatened harm to an individual within the 10 years immediately preceding the date of hire.
Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license. Out of Country driver’s license holders will be required to obtain the appropriate valid State of Michigan driver’s license before the hire date.
Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, established for this classification.
Successfully complete the six-month probationary period.
Additional Desirable Qualifications
Previous work experience with youths either on a paid or volunteer basis.
College study in the area of Sociology, Psychology, Social Work or Criminal Justice.
Considerable ability to communicate effectively with others.
Considerable ability to follow oral and written instructions by management.
Considerable ability to prepare and present oral and written reports.
Considerable knowledge of residents' needs, habits, and characteristics of behavior in order to appropriately advise, instruct, and supervise residents.
Considerable ability to cope with emergency or difficult situations requiring immediate decisions in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with residents, other employees and the general public.
Reasonable knowledge of residents' needs, habits, and characteristics of behavior.
Reasonable ability to counsel, instruct, mentor, and actively supervise residents.
Standard Physical Requirements
Frequent to constant standing, walking, running, and lifting while supervising and observing residents and work activities with residents.
Strength and dexterity of a degree to restrain residents when necessary.
Sensory skills intact to be able to detect smoke, fire and contraband carried or being used by the residents.
Additional Minimum Qualifications
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Must submit to annual periodic tuberculin skin tests or chest x-rays at County expense.
Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.
Drive designated county-owned vehicle when on duty, unless directed otherwise.
Must become certified in CPR and maintain certification annually.
Before beginning employment, candidates will be required to provide Children’s Village with documentation from the Michigan Department of Human Services that they have not been named in a central registry case as the perpetrator of child abuse or child neglect. In addition, applicants being considered for hire will be asked to sign a form authorizing Children’s Village to request and receive a criminal history check in accordance with the privacy act of 1974.
Applicants For Positions At Children’s Village Will Not Be Considered If They Have Been Convicted Of Either Of The Following
Child Abuse or Neglect.
A felony involving harm or threatened harm to an individual within the 10 years
immediately preceding the date of hire.
Union*
We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
Inclusion Statement
Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.
Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.
When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.
For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:
https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire
General Summary
This job posting is for administrative and processing purposes only. Candidates should apply only if you have been directly instructed by HR to do so. Applications submitted without prior HR authorization will not be considered.
Salary: $22.02 - $28.73 per hour
This position is on-site.
Role
Do you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of youth who need support, structure, and guidance? As a Youth Specialist I at Oakland County Children’s Village, you will play a vital role in providing care, mentorship, and supervision to at-risk youth in one of three distinct programs:
- Residential Treatment: Helping troubled youth change behavioral patterns through structured care, guidance, and support.
- Secure Detention: Supervising youth awaiting court proceedings who may be accused of various offenses, ensuring safety and structure.
- Emergency Shelter Care (Mandy’s Place): Providing short-term placement and stability for youth, from birth to age 17, who are victims of abuse or neglect.
What You’ll Do
- Supervise and guide youth in daily activities, including meals, school, recreation, and personal care.
- Serve as a positive role model, reinforcing respectful and responsible behavior.
- Maintain a safe and secure environment by monitoring living areas, addressing concerns, and enforcing rules consistently.
- Document daily resident behavior and prepare reports to support progress tracking and care decisions.
- You will directly impact the lives of youth, helping them develop the skills and confidence they need for a brighter future.
- You will work alongside a passionate, supportive team committed to safety, respect, and positive change.
- No two days are the same. Each shift offers meaningful challenges and rewarding moments.
- You will gain valuable experience in youth services, behavioral intervention, and crisis management.
Minimum Qualifications
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Observes the behavior of the residents through supervising the daily activities and ensure that all prescribed activities such as school, study, meal, and recreation time are carried out.
Interacts and communicates with at-risk adolescents residing at Children's Village.
Records daily behavior information of residents, and completes reports related to the operation of the facility. Ensures that behavior logs are maintained throughout shift, enabling the proceeding shift access to relevant information concerning the residents.
Promotes and assists residents with daily living skills such as personal hygiene, eating habits, and table manners. Ensures that sleeping, dressing and housekeeping activities are followed according to schedule.
Closely monitors residents at all times to ensure that all are present and/or accounted for. Assists in maintaining and enforcing rules and guidelines of the program.
Participates as part of the treatment team that develops and implements treatment plans for the residents.
Inspects living areas and sleeping quarters to ensure security is maintained and to detect possible trouble. These room/facility searches may require bending, squatting, and stretching for various lengths of time.
Provides crisis intervention that may include physically restraining and/or moving aggressive, uncontrolled, violent youths when necessary.
Responds to emergency situations in accordance with the facility's emergency code system which may include: medical emergencies, fights, self-abuse, suicide attempts, escapes, attempted escapes, assaults toward staff, destruction of property and riot control.
Upholds behavioral standards using prescribed procedures.
Responsible for the cleanliness of assigned unit and any equipment used in programs.
Drives vehicles, as necessary, to transport and/or escort residents to and from various appointments, such as court hearings, classes, other agencies, medical and dental appointments, and recreational events.
Observes residents for signs of illness, and carries out instructions of medical staff, including distributing medicines, to ensure that residents receive appropriate health care.
Additional Duties & Responsibilities
Instructs by demonstrating indoor/outdoor recreational, vocational, and work activities to foster development of residents' skills and sportsmanship.
Assists in admitting new residents to facility, following established rules and procedures.
Responsible for meal counts and records of food consumed in order to ensure accuracy and adherence to the Michigan Department of Education food funding regulations.
When directed, assists in searches for escapees/runaways from the facility.
Under direction, assists higher level personnel in ensuring that supplies are ordered in a timely fashion. Maintains inventory and accounting records as directed.
Performs public relations duties such as assisting in conducting tours of Children's Village, when assigned.
Essential Mental & Physical Requirements
Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
Ability to care for juveniles.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a typical juvenile residential setting.
Close contact with people who could become confrontational.
May participate in activities that require driving or being a passenger in an automobile.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.
Required Minimum Qualifications
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Must be a high school graduate or have a certificate of successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) Test.
Have passed his/her 21st birthday.
Have not been convicted of a felony violation involving harm or threatened harm to an individual within the 10 years immediately preceding the date of hire.
Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license. Out of Country driver’s license holders will be required to obtain the appropriate valid State of Michigan driver’s license before the hire date.
Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, established for this classification.
Successfully complete the six-month probationary period.
Additional Desirable Qualifications
Previous work experience with youths either on a paid or volunteer basis.
College study in the area of Sociology, Psychology, Social Work or Criminal Justice.
Considerable ability to communicate effectively with others.
Considerable ability to follow oral and written instructions by management.
Considerable ability to prepare and present oral and written reports.
Considerable knowledge of residents' needs, habits, and characteristics of behavior in order to appropriately advise, instruct, and supervise residents.
Considerable ability to cope with emergency or difficult situations requiring immediate decisions in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with residents, other employees and the general public.
Reasonable knowledge of residents' needs, habits, and characteristics of behavior.
Reasonable ability to counsel, instruct, mentor, and actively supervise residents.
Standard Physical Requirements
Frequent to constant standing, walking, running, and lifting while supervising and observing residents and work activities with residents.
Strength and dexterity of a degree to restrain residents when necessary.
Sensory skills intact to be able to detect smoke, fire and contraband carried or being used by the residents.
Additional Minimum Qualifications
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Must submit to annual periodic tuberculin skin tests or chest x-rays at County expense.
Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.
Drive designated county-owned vehicle when on duty, unless directed otherwise.
Must become certified in CPR and maintain certification annually.
Before beginning employment, candidates will be required to provide Children’s Village with documentation from the Michigan Department of Human Services that they have not been named in a central registry case as the perpetrator of child abuse or child neglect. In addition, applicants being considered for hire will be asked to sign a form authorizing Children’s Village to request and receive a criminal history check in accordance with the privacy act of 1974.
Applicants For Positions At Children’s Village Will Not Be Considered If They Have Been Convicted Of Either Of The Following
Child Abuse or Neglect.
A felony involving harm or threatened harm to an individual within the 10 years
immediately preceding the date of hire.
Union*
- If applicable
We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
Inclusion Statement
Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.
Salary : $22 - $29