Juvenile Detention Officer 2 - Day and Swing Available

Pierce County; Tacoma (WA); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Pierce County Juvenile Court is seeking a Detention Specialist to provide protective supervision and care for residents 24/7. The role emphasizes coaching and mentoring youth, de-escalation, and ensuring safety for both residents and staff.

Successful candidates will have minimal post-high school education or relevant experience, plus mandatory WA training, CPR, TB testing, and a valid driver’s license. Shift work is required with potential overtime commitments.

Qualifications

• Completing two years of post-high school education or two years of relevant experience in the guidance and supervision of young people.
• One year of experience as a Detention Specialist I or comparable position.
• Must satisfactorily complete the Training Academy at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission within 12 months of hire.
• A valid Washington State driver’s license is required.
• Shift work is required; overtime may be required.
• Must maintain a current phone number and pass a background investigation.
• Within 60 days of hire must pass WA-approved CPR; within 15 days must complete TB test.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the welfare, safety, and security of residents.
• Deescalate conflicts and manage behavior of residents.
• Provide supervision, coaching and mentoring to youth.
• Identify potentially destructive behavior and intervene appropriately.
• Work shifts across all facility areas under supervision.
• Participate in training and trauma-informed approaches to care.

Skills

De-escalation techniques

Mentoring youth

Coaching and teaching

Behavior management

Trauma-informed approach

Education

Two years of post-high school education in social sciences/related field

Two years of experience in guidance and supervision of youth

Job description

This is a 40 hour a week position, swing shift 3pm-11pm with midweek days off.

Rates of pay are for 2025.

Why This is a Great Opportunity:

Pierce County has one of the most forward-thinking social rehabilitation programs in the country. Your passion for supporting, coaching and mentoring young people in the community, along with the skillsets you bring, will be valued here. The Juvenile Court system is proud to be a national leader in working with young people and families to address systemic racism and improve outcomes for all people in our community. We welcome and embrace your diverse perspective and talents. We believe people and systems can change, and together, we will make a powerful impact in the community.

Our Guiding Principles

We Practice Gratitude:

Put relationships first and be thankful; a readiness to show appreciation for others and return kindness.

We Value Differences:

Appreciate and embrace differences in opinions, cultures, and experiences.

We Maintain a Growth Mindset:

Effort and perseverance are important; giving and receiving feedback is critical to improving skills and establishing grit. The focus is on the process; outcomes will follow.

We Choose Courage Over Comfort:

Willing to face challenging tasks and engage in difficult conversations with grace. We support each other in all times.

We Practice Authenticity:

Be genuine, speak your truth, and seek understanding of experiences that differ from your own.

How to be Successful in the Role:

Success in this position is measured by the ability to build and sustain positive relationships, coach, teach and mentor young people while maintaining healthy boundaries. Keeping the safety and security of young people and staff as priority, by using successful behavioral management skills and de-escalation techniques. Responding to situations that arise through atrauma informed lens and with a compassionate approach will also contribute to the success of the individual in this role.

Your Future in the Role:

As the justice system continues to improve and reform, we welcome forward thinking, creative, and compassionate people who thrive on working with the next generation. This position has opportunities for professional development, leadership, and training, as well as career advancement within Pierce County Juvenile Court.

Core Daily Responsibilities:

• You will be responsible for the wellbeing of residents on a 24-hour, 7 days a week basis. This position provides important work in protective supervision, screening, booking, and care for young people during their time at Pierce County Juvenile Court.
• You will oversee the welfare, safety, and security of the residents.
• You will deescalate conflicts and thoughtfully manage behavior of residents.
• You will identify potentially destructive behavior and intervene appropriately.
• You will provide thoughtful supervision, coaching and mentoring while nurturing young people who overcome adversity, work through their feelings, and transition back into the community so they can thrive.
• You will be trained in skill building and behavioral management techniques which you will be expected to utilize in individual or group interactions with young people. This includes using established guidelines to assess mental or medical issues of youth prior to acceptance into the facility.
• You may exercise supervision of an on-call or volunteer workers assigned to the work shift.
• You will work shifts, with varying days off, and are expected to be able to perform the functions and duties of all shifts in all areas of the facility. Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Shift Supervisor and the general supervision of the Manager of Detention Services.

Strategic Responsibilities and Values:

You should be adaptable, forward-thinking, trauma informed, and compassionate, while maintaining the safety, security, and wellbeing of young people in the care and custody of Pierce County Juvenile Detention. You should support the vision of a safe, connected community where all young people and families are supported and empowered to build on their strengths, so that they can reach their full potential.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Requirements:

• Completion of two years of post-high school education in the social sciences, corrections, or related field; or two years of experience (paid or volunteer) in the guidance, discipline, and supervision of young people involved with the court. Additional education or experience may substitute equally for the position requirements.
• and one year of experience as a Detention Specialist I or comparable position.
• Must satisfactorily complete the Training Academy at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission within 12 months of hire.

Special Requirements:

• A valid Washington State driver's license is required.
• Physical strength and agility necessary to subdue and restrain a young person in the event they are an imminent harm to themselves or others. Satisfactory physical condition, as evidenced by a County-approved physical examination may be required.
• Shift work is required. May be required to work overtime.
• Must maintain a current phone number or message phone.
• Must successfully complete a background investigation prior to final selection.
• Within 60 days of hire must successfully pass Washington state approved CPR course.
• Within 15 days of hire must complete PPD Tuberculin skin test with appropriate follow-up.
• Must satisfactorily complete the Training Academy at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission