JUVENILE SPECIALIST 72262

07/16/92 D

This is the first class in the Juvenile Specialist series which supervises youths in juvenile justice system facilities. Positions in this class provide on-site supervision to youths to carry out treatment programs and to comply with security requirements. This class is distinguished from the Juvenile Specialist Senior class by the latter's responsibility for supervision of the subject class.

Complexity of Work: Positions in this class typically are assigned to a housing unit of a juvenile justice facility and perform work of routine difficulty which involves direct supervision of youths. This includes monitoring movements of youths in compliance with designated security levels; intervening in crisis situations, controlling disruptive youths, and alerting appropriate individuals; controlling access of individuals (teachers, medical staff) and materials to units; and participating in searches for runaways. Positions in this class also participate in implementation of treatment programs, including interacting with youths and acting as role models; teaching and reinforcing life skills, such as writing letters, personal hygiene, and social skills; providing guidance in anger control, conflict resolution, and problem solving; reinforcing specific behavior goals for each youth based on his/her individual treatment plan; and observing, documenting, and reviewing behavior of youths with treatment staff. Positions also provide close monitoring of depressed or possible suicidal youths and take appropriate actions. They also monitor youths removed from classes for disruptive or other problematic behavior, or supervise youths waiting for appointments at the Reception and Diagnostic Center or Central Infirmary.

Supervision Given: None.

Supervision Received: Receives direction, guidance, training, work review and assignments from a Juvenile Specialist Senior or Juvenile Lead Specialist.

Scope: Work performed affects the security and well-being of youths, as well as the community at large, through provision of appropriate security and program implementation.

Impact of Actions: Work performed by this class has serious impact on the facility, the agency and the community through provision of appropriate supervision and treatment assistance to youths in the juvenile justice system. Error may result in AWOL youths, injury to youths or staff, or ineffective interaction with youths, which could result in short- and long-term costs to the agency in money, time, and credibility.

Personal Contacts: Frequent contact with Department of Correctional Education staff, Behavioral Services staff, court service or social service personnel, community resource staff, law enforcement officers, families of youths in order to exchange information related to the treatment and security of youths.

Knowledge: Some knowledge of safety and security policies and procedures; crisis intervention; and of appropriate implementation of assignments in assistance in treatment programs.

Skills: Skill in the use of appropriate restraint methods, in the use of hand-held radios, and administering first aid.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to supervise groups of juveniles and to work with youths, including providing a positive role model, reinforcing appropriate behavior, and guidance; effectively communicate with youths; provide guidance to youths both in general life skills and in specific treatment areas; keep records or documentation; and quickly assess situations and take appropriate action.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

License or Certification: None.

Education or Training: High school graduation or equivalent. Must complete Department of Youth and Family Services mandated training.

Level and Type of Experience: Some experience working with youths is preferred.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established as part of the Classification Review/Specification Update Program. This class replaces the Learning Center Supervisor A class, effective July 16, 1992.