Youth Care Worker-Shelter PT

Lancopasheriff; Lancaster (Lancaster County); Hybrid; USD 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Lancaster County is hiring Youth Care Workers to directly care for and supervise detained youth, guiding their daily interactions in a secure facility.

The role emphasizes safety, documentation, and support of basic needs, with weekend and holiday shifts as needed. Applicants must be 21+, have a HS diploma or GED, and be able to maintain confidentiality in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 21 years of age minimum per PA code.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed.

Responsibilities

• Observe and document behavior of detained youth.
• Prevent physical, sexual, and emotional abuse of detained youth.
• Explain and reinforce rules of operation with detained youth.
• Prepare and deliver services related to basic human needs.
• Ensure community safety by adhering to facility security procedures.
• Transport detained youth to court and medical appointments.
• Administer first aid to detained youth when necessary.

Skills

Juvenile justice knowledge

Child welfare knowledge

Experience with juveniles

Confidentiality

Organizational skills

Self-starter

Cultural competence

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Word processing

Data entry

Email software

Job description

Starting Compensation: $21.97/Hourly

Youth Care Workers are responsible for the direct daily care and supervision of the youth detained in the facility. This position is expected to exert a positive influence over detained youth through daily interaction.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Observe and document behavior of detained youth.
• Prevent physical, sexual, and emotional abuse of detained youth.
• Explain and reinforce rules of operation with detained youth.
• Prepare and deliver services related to basic human needs.
• Ensure community safety by adhering to facility security procedures.
• Interact and guide detained youth regarding individual and group behaviors.
• Meet, greet, and search detained youth during the admissions process.
• Physically manage detained youth to prevent injury, as needed.
• Transport detained youth to court and medical appointments.
• Monitor residents during offsite programming events.
• Administer first aid to detained youth, as necessary.
• Available to work weekends, holidays and flexible shifts, as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• In accordance with PA Code 3800-55h, applicants must be 21 years of age. Candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the juvenile justice and child welfare systems.
• Knowledge of basic institutional housekeeping.
• Knowledge of behaviors associated with detained youth.
• Experience working with juveniles.
• Good organizational skills.
• Dependable individual who is self-starter and can work with minimal supervision.
• Individual needs to be culturally competent.
• Proficient in the use of a personal computer using common word processing, data entry and email software.
• Ability to speak and write legibly and articulately.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to maintain professional demeanor under stressful situations.
• Ability to work in a diverse environment.
• Ability to interact with youth in a positive manner.
• Able to perform multiple duties in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to handle CONFIDENTIAL information in a professional manner.
• Ability to produce high volumes of work with minimal errors.

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/CLEARANCES

• Clean criminal record, FBI Clearance, and child abuse record. Clearances are due at the time of hire. Must have and maintain a valid Pennsylvania driver's license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with County policy.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Must have the ability to physically restrain youth ages ten to eighteen when displaying physical aggression or self-harming behaviors in order to prevent injury, as needed.
• Occasional pushing and pulling up to 150 lbs.
• Walking 40% of the time
• Sitting 60% of the time

The County of Lancaster offers comprehensive benefits to our employees. Read more about our benefits here.

Lancaster County Government provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all persons regardless of race, religion, age, sex, national origin, genetic information or disability.

The County also observes all applicable laws regarding Veterans status.

The County reflects this action in all areas of employment and compensation practices and policies.

Employment with the County is based upon the ability to perform the job as well as dependability and reliability once an individual is hired.

About Us

Working for Lancaster County offers not just a job, but a chance to thrive both professionally and personally. The benefits package for full-time employees, including paid time off, health insurance and flexible healthcare plans, ensures that you feel valued and supported in your role. With employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and more, you'll have the resources you need to provide excellent service to the 550,000 residents of Lancaster County. With 1,600 full-time employees and 300 part-time employees spread across 40 departments, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and development within the county. Whether you're interested in human services, public safety, administration, or any other field, there's a place for you to make a difference and advance your career. Lancaster County itself is a vibrant and diverse community, offering something for everyone. From the peaceful farmland to the bustling city and towns, there's always something new to discover. Whether it's exploring farmers markets, enjoying local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the rich history of the area, Lancaster County has endless opportunities for you and your family to learn, explore, and enjoy. Joining the team at Lancaster County means becoming part of a community dedicated to maintaining and improving this wonderful place we call home.