Juvenile Justice Support Specialist

Looking to start or grow your career in Juvenile Justice? CHD's Juvenile Justice Program is seeking compassionate, dedicated, and motivated Residential Support Specialists to join our team. Working in partnership with the Department of Youth Services (DYS), you'll play a critical role in supporting young people as they develop the skills, accountability, and confidence needed to create positive life changes.

This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the juvenile justice field while making a meaningful impact in the lives of youth. Whether you're pursuing a career in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Counseling, Law Enforcement, or Human Services, you'll develop valuable skills in youth advocacy, crisis intervention, behavior management, and rehabilitation.

• →Provide direct supervision and support to youth in daily program activities
• →Build positive relationships that foster growth, accountability, and personal development
• →Provide advocacy, guidance, and counseling support to residents
• →Facilitate and participate in group meetings and skill-building activities
• →Monitor resident movement and ensure program safety and security
• →Utilize program policies and interventions to support positive behavior change
• →Orient new residents to program expectations and routines
• →Complete documentation, including Daily Log entries and incident reporting
• →Maintain a safe, structured, and supportive environment for youth and staff
• →Adapt to changing situations and respond effectively to program needs

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Human Services, Education, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered
• Interest in juvenile justice, youth development, behavioral health, or social services
• Understanding of adolescent development and behavioral dynamics preferred
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively in a secure residential setting
• Valid driver's license and reliable vehicle for work-related transportation
• Ability to successfully complete medication administration training
• Ability to pass all required background screenings
• Previous experience working in residential care, juvenile justice, youth services, corrections, education, coaching, mentoring, or behavioral health is welcome but not required.

All newly hired staff must attend a three-week DYS Basic Training Academy (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM). This comprehensive training provides a strong foundation in juvenile justice practices, youth engagement, safety protocols, and behavior management.

If you're looking for a meaningful career where you can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people while gaining valuable experience in the juvenile justice field, apply today. Be part of a team that believes every youth deserves the opportunity for a second chance and a brighter future.

The Center for Human Development (CHD) provides a broad range of high quality, community-oriented human services dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and protecting the dignity and welfare of people in need. At CHD we are celebrating differences, inclusion is not just a policy- it is a daily practice. Multicultural, multilingual, and fluent in sign language, CHD is a reflection of those we serve. 

If this sounds like the right job for you, do not wait - apply today to join our team. We look forward to hearing from you! 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities