Youth Development & Safety Officer

Minnehaha County; Yankton (SD); On-site; USD 3,912,000 - 4,282,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Structured shifts

Night shift differential

Comprehensive benefits

Retention bonuses

Paid training

Job summary

Minnehaha County in Sioux Falls, SD is seeking a Juvenile Correctional Officer who will guide youth and ensure safety in a 24/7 facility. The role emphasizes trust, accountability, and mentoring during a pivotal time in a young person’s life.

We offer structured shifts (7 a.m.–3 p.m., 3 p.m.–11 p.m., 11 p.m.–7 a.m.), rotating weekends, a $1/hr night differential, paid training, and a robust benefits package with potential retention bonuses for sustained performance.

Qualifications

• Two years of post-secondary education and related experience OR one year working with at-risk youth, corrections, or a similarly structured environment.
• A valid driver's license and safe driving record.
• Must successfully complete the pre-employment background process.
• Experience in criminal justice, behavioral health, education, social services, residential care, military service, or youth programming is valuable.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe and secure environment by supervising youth during daily activities.
• Provide guidance and encouragement to help youth navigate challenges and make positive decisions.
• Use communication and de-escalation skills to reduce conflict and support youth in moments of crisis.
• Build structure and consistency by enforcing facility expectations and procedures.
• Lead and support daily programming including educational, recreational, and life-skills activities.
• Monitor progress and document information to support decisions and youth care.
• Support youth and families by providing guidance and coordinating with community providers.
• Assist with admissions, releases, transportation, and facility operations.

Education

Two years of post-secondary education or related experience

Job description

Minnehaha County in Sioux Falls, SD is seeking a Juvenile Correctional Officer who will guide youth and ensure safety in a 24/7 facility. The role emphasizes trust, accountability, and mentoring during a pivotal time in a young person’s life.

We offer structured shifts (7 a.m.–3 p.m., 3 p.m.–11 p.m., 11 p.m.–7 a.m.), rotating weekends, a $1/hr night differential, paid training, and a robust benefits package with potential retention bonuses for sustained performance.