YOUTH DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVE

DC Department of Human Resources; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency for youth rehabilitation is seeking a Youth Development Representative in Washington, DC. This position involves supervising and engaging youth in custody, assisting in their rehabilitation, and ensuring their safety. A bachelor's degree is required along with experience in relevant fields. Candidates must possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to de-escalate conflicts effectively. This role operates in a challenging environment with varying shifts.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Specialized experience related to the position includes roles like police officer or mental health counselor.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and engage youth in custody.
• Transport youth to court and manage recreational activities.
• De-escalate conflicts and ensure safety.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Conflict de-escalation

Active engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Overview

The DC Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) mission is to improve public safety and give court-involved youth the opportunity to become more productive citizens by building on the strengths of youth and their families in the least restrictive, most homelike environment consistent with public safety. DYRS administers detention, commitment, and aftercare services for youth held under its care in its secure facilities or residing in the DC community. The Youth Development Representative (YDR) position is located in the Secured Programs Division, under the purview of the Deputy Director of Secured Programs with the DC Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS).

DYRS is an agency tasked with providing holistic and therapeutic programs and services to adjudicated youth between the ages of 12-21 in the District of Columbia. It serves as the District's cabinet level juvenile justice agency.

Duties And Responsibilities

• The Youth Development Representative (YDR) is responsible for the rehabilitation, direct supervision, and active positive engagement, as well as the safety and security of youth in the custody of DYRS. Emphasis is placed on interacting with troubled youth when assisting in treatment and supervision, consistent with the principles of positive youth development.
• The YDR will receive intensive, hands-on training under the direct supervision of the department\'s training division and/or facility supervisory staff.
• Provide day-to-day direct supervision and positive engagement of youth in the department\'s care and custody; maintain vigilance in performance of duties; be an integral part of a multi-disciplinary team endeavoring to rehabilitate and provide safe, secure, and humane treatment of youth in custody.
• Maintain ongoing visual contact with all youth under supervision and engage youth in a positive and developmentally appropriate manner.
• Transport youth to court and other locations; supervise recreational activities; maintain custody of youth in hospitals and medical clinics; monitor living, dining, and educational areas in an engaging and interactive manner; ensure youth and staff safety.
• Prioritize positive interaction, safety, security, and rehabilitation of youth while under direct supervision.
• De-escalate conflicts, tensions, fights or disturbances; when necessary, physically restrain and impose discipline of youth consistent with department policies and procedures.

Qualifications And Education

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor\'s degree from an accredited college or university.
• OR Specialized experience directly related to the position that equips the individual with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties. Experience may include police officer, mental health counselor in a residential facility, or detention officer. At least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.

Licenses and Certifications

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver\'s license issued by the District of Columbia.

Working Conditions / Environment

Work is performed in a juvenile detention facility. Some degree of hazard may be present in working with high-risk youth in custody with histories of aggressive conduct and disruptive behavioral problems.

Other Significant Facts

• Tour of Duty: Work hours are on a rotational basis to any DYRS facilities, group homes, or service areas. This facility is a 24/7 operation. Shifts may vary. Rotational tour of work normally requires rotation on AM, PM, Midnight, seven days per week, including holidays. Employees are subject to a mandatory overtime draft depending on facility needs.
• Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0007-07
• Promotion Potential: No known promotion potential
• Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is a union position covered by Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and may require payment of an agency service fee through payroll deductions.
• Position Designation: Enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Safety Sensitive.
• The incumbent must be able to physically perform basic life operational functions and restraint techniques, have visual and hearing acuity to observe behaviors, and communicate effectively. A physical exam and Child Protection Registry clearance are required.
• In compliance with PREA, the agency will assess staffing needs to determine gender-specific duties, such as body searches and shower supervision.
• Essential Designation: This position is essential and may be required during emergencies to perform duties such as snow removal, transportation, and shelter operations when the government is closed or most employees are dismissed early.
• Career Pathways Statement: This position is part of the Pathway to Government Employment Partnership Program. District residents with relevant education may receive priority consideration. Documentation including proof of residency is required before a final offer.
• EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.