Juvenile Detention Officer I



JOB CODE: 2150

PAY GRADE: 1120

SALARY RANGE: $26,508 - $45,119

LOCATION OF WORK
Juvenile Services

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of the Detention Facility Shift Supervisor, performs responsible detention work involving the care and supervision of delinquent juveniles as a member of an assigned shift at a detention facility. Work involves responsibility for promoting and ensuring the good physical, emotional and moral health and development of those under the charge of the detention facility. Work also involves maintaining the security and safety of the building and its occupants. Supervision and control is exercised over occupants placed under the detention facility's care. Employees of this class may exercise limited independent judgment within prescribed standards and regulations. Performs other work as requested. Note: Some employees within this classification are hired on a part-time basis and paid at an hourly rate.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Exercises supervision over juveniles placed under the control of the Juvenile Detention Facility through constant observation; maintains both visual and auditory surveillance. Aids in administering disciplinary measures according to established rules of conduct; isolates violent children; reports all infractions to superiors. Escorts detainees to and from cafeteria, classes and other activities; transports detainees; dispenses medical supplies; counsels detainees as the need arises. Records daily events and incidents, as well as the routine admission and release of detainees; completes and maintains various records and reports. Conducts search of detainees and facility. Acts as shift supervisor in the absence of supervisor in accordance with licensing requirements.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of the principles and practices of group leadership, behavior patterns and group attitudes of delinquents. Knowledge of general psychology as applied to detained juveniles. Ability to gain and hold the confidence of, and maintain a sympathetic and understanding attitude toward, delinquent detainees. Ability to enforce regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality. Ability to keep routine records and to make oral and written reports. Ability to understand detailed oral and written instructions. Ability to certify in training areas required by licensure and/or DOC including federal mandates. Ability to occasionally supervise employees in the absence of a supervisor. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL AND EXPERIENCE
High school diploma, GED, HiSET, or equivalent certificate of competency, and one year of experience in work with juveniles or juvenile offenders.

SUBSTITUTIONS
Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSES / REGISTRATIONS
(Unless otherwise specified below, must possess at the time of appointment and must be maintained current throughout employment in this classification.) Must have a valid Louisiana driver's license at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this classification.

OTHER JOB ASPECTS
In accordance with Licensing Standards of the Louisiana Administrative Code (Title 67, Part V, Subpart 8, Chapter 75, Juvenile Detention Facilities, §7511. Facility Responsibilities, B. Criminal Background Clearance), all employees of this classification assigned to the Juvenile Services Detention Center must pass a criminal background check and/or be fingerprinted at the time of appointment. Both appointment and continued employment at this location is contingent upon the ability to pass a criminal background check. Failure to pass a criminal background check renders a candidate or current employee ineligible for employment at this location.


NOTE:
The work examples described in this specification are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from job performance requirements if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the job.