Youth Engagement Specialist – Trauma-Informed Programs

South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Health, dental, and life insurance

15 days annual (vacation) leave

15 days of sick leave

13 paid holidays

State retirement plans

Job summary

The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is seeking a Youth Engagement Coordinator to plan, implement, and document structured recreation and wellness programs within secure facilities. The role focuses on positive youth development, trauma-informed activities, and maintaining a safe, engaging environment for youth.

Responsibilities include designing monthly calendars, supervising activities, ensuring adherence to master schedules, and supporting division priorities with flexible,

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma and relevant program experience.
• Bachelor's degree in physical education, recreation or related field preferred.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care and youth development principles is required.
• Ability to facilitate structured activities and group sessions.
• Knowledge of behavior management and de-escalation strategies.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Executes all programmed activities per master schedule with structure and engagement for youth.
• Maintains active supervision and directs youth during programming to ensure safety.
• Designs trauma-informed recreation and wellness activities that build physical health and emotional regulation.
• Develops monthly calendars, flyers, and incentive systems for visible programming across units.
• Maintains control and safety of programming materials and spaces, ensuring smooth transitions.
• Performs other duties as directed to support division priorities and emergencies.

Skills

Wellness programming

Trauma-informed care

Group facilitation

Behavior management

Youth engagement

Mobility/safety

Emergency response

Communication skills

Time management

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor's degree in physical education or recreation

Job description

The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is seeking a Youth Engagement Coordinator to plan, implement, and document structured recreation and wellness programs within secure facilities. The role focuses on positive youth development, trauma-informed activities, and maintaining a safe, engaging environment for youth.

Responsibilities include designing monthly calendars, supervising activities, ensuring adherence to master schedules, and supporting division priorities with flexible,