
Youth Program Officer II- - ($5,000 Sign on Incentive for External Candidates Only)
Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Hourly
Exact $29.41
Benefits
generous leave accruals
Career development opportunities
remote and flex-work options
longevity pay
education assistance program
health benefits
Retirement Plan
Job Description
Bernalillo County is a dynamic public service organization committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, communities, and businesses through effective governance and community-focused programs. With a strong emphasis on work-life balance, flexibility, learning, and fostering a culture of belonging, Bernalillo County provides numerous opportunities for employees to grow and succeed. The County is known for its comprehensive benefits package that supports its workforce, including generous leave accruals, career development programs, remote and flexible work options when suitable, longevity pay, education assistance, health benefits, and an attractive retirement plan. Operating within this vibrant environment, employees collaborate to uphold community safety, well-being, and development while cultivating an inclusive workplace environment.
This position is within the Youth Services Center located at 5100 Second St NW. The Youth Program Officer II works under the general supervision of a Program Manager to provide direct supervision, care, and treatment to youth residents who are in the custody of the Youth Services Center or its programs. The role carries a union pay rate of $29.41 per hour and includes a $5,000 sign-on incentive for external candidates. This is a critical, responsible role that emphasizes safety, discipline, and rehabilitation. The Youth Program Officer II ensures security and order within the facility, serves as a frontline lead worker overseeing shift staffing and maintenance, and participates actively in staff training and development.
The Youth Program Officer II evaluates and implements educational and therapeutic programs that enhance daily living skills, social skills, and work/study habits for youth residents. They conduct group and individual counseling, manage resident files and documentation, and ensure accurate reporting to supervisors. Additional duties include supervising physical education and recreational activities, transporting residents to courts or other off-site appointments, and handling situations that may require physical restraint or pursuit of residents attempting to escape. The position requires meticulous shift transition processes, including briefing on resident counts, equipment, and staffing. Officers also liaise with parents, guardians, probation officers, and other agencies to facilitate comprehensive care and compliance.
Working in a secure, correctional environment necessitates adherence to all safety standards and policies, including OSHA-approved respiratory protocols when needed. This role requires a valid New Mexico driver’s license and involves shift work, indoor and outdoor responsibilities, and potential exposure to hazards associated with the population served. Initial employment includes 120 hours of on-the-job training encompassing State Juvenile Code and restraint training, with ongoing recertification requirements.
Overall, the Youth Program Officer II is a pivotal figure within the Youth Services Center, balancing enforcement, care, and rehabilitation to promote positive outcomes for youth in custody. This role offers an excellent opportunity for professionals with a background in law enforcement, criminology, psychology, or related fields who are dedicated to public service and youth development.
This position is within the Youth Services Center located at 5100 Second St NW. The Youth Program Officer II works under the general supervision of a Program Manager to provide direct supervision, care, and treatment to youth residents who are in the custody of the Youth Services Center or its programs. The role carries a union pay rate of $29.41 per hour and includes a $5,000 sign-on incentive for external candidates. This is a critical, responsible role that emphasizes safety, discipline, and rehabilitation. The Youth Program Officer II ensures security and order within the facility, serves as a frontline lead worker overseeing shift staffing and maintenance, and participates actively in staff training and development.
The Youth Program Officer II evaluates and implements educational and therapeutic programs that enhance daily living skills, social skills, and work/study habits for youth residents. They conduct group and individual counseling, manage resident files and documentation, and ensure accurate reporting to supervisors. Additional duties include supervising physical education and recreational activities, transporting residents to courts or other off-site appointments, and handling situations that may require physical restraint or pursuit of residents attempting to escape. The position requires meticulous shift transition processes, including briefing on resident counts, equipment, and staffing. Officers also liaise with parents, guardians, probation officers, and other agencies to facilitate comprehensive care and compliance.
Working in a secure, correctional environment necessitates adherence to all safety standards and policies, including OSHA-approved respiratory protocols when needed. This role requires a valid New Mexico driver’s license and involves shift work, indoor and outdoor responsibilities, and potential exposure to hazards associated with the population served. Initial employment includes 120 hours of on-the-job training encompassing State Juvenile Code and restraint training, with ongoing recertification requirements.
Overall, the Youth Program Officer II is a pivotal figure within the Youth Services Center, balancing enforcement, care, and rehabilitation to promote positive outcomes for youth in custody. This role offers an excellent opportunity for professionals with a background in law enforcement, criminology, psychology, or related fields who are dedicated to public service and youth development.
Job Requirements
- Associate's Degree in Law Enforcement, Criminology, Psychology or related field
- One year related experience working in a lockdown, secure or correctional facility
- Successful completion of post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation
- Compliance with Bernalillo County safety guidelines
- Completion of required FEMA training
- Completion of 120 initial hours of on-the-job training including State Juvenile Code and 'A Level' Restraint Training with re-certification every six months
- Compliance with Bernalillo County safety policy requirements including use of an OSHA approved respirator when required
- Valid New Mexico driver’s license by employment date and maintenance of license while employed
- Willingness to work shifts
- Ability to perform duties indoors and outdoors
- Capability to handle potential hazards from violent residents and infectious disease exposure
Job Qualifications
- Associate's Degree in Law Enforcement, Criminology, Psychology or related field
- One year related experience working in a lockdown, secure or correctional facility
- Ability to conduct group and individual counseling
- Strong communication and report writing skills
- Experience in supervising staff and leading teams
- Knowledge of juvenile justice and correctional facility operations
- Ability to maintain discipline and handle emergency situations
- Valid New Mexico driver’s license
- Ability to complete required on-the-job training and retraining
Job Duties
- Maintain security, order and discipline to prevent disturbance, escapes and ensure the safety of residents, staff and the community
- Serve as first line lead-worker to ensure shifts are fully staffed and that maintenance of units and facility security are maintained including resident searches and facility inspections
- Conduct and participate with in-service training and staff development programs
- Assist in training, assigning, and leading subordinate staff
- Evaluate, recommend and implement programs to educate residents in daily living skills, social skills and work/study habits
- Counsel residents in-group and individual sessions
- Review youth files/records to ensure accurate, updated documentation and provide oral and written reports to the Program Manager
- Assign and monitor activities of residents
- supervise residents in physical education and recreational activities
- Transport residents to court, hospitals or other facilities and service locations outside of the Youth Services Center
- Physically restrain violent residents, and if necessary, pursue residents on foot, in the case of escape attempts
- Assure for appropriate shift transition, including but not limited to accumulation of all pertinent documents, staffing issues, resident count and equipment and keys
- Initiate contacts with parents, legal guardians, Probation and Parole Officers and other agencies
- Perform other operational job-related duties and on the job training as required or assigned
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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