SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST - JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER

Overview

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt. The Social Services Specialist provides direct care, supervision, and support to youth housed in the County’s Secure Juvenile Detention and Shelter Care. Staff ensure safety, promote positive youth development, and implement daily programming in accordance with Wisconsin DCF 59, DOC 346, and all facility policies and procedures. The role requires maintaining a structured, supportive, and professional environment while always modeling positive behavior.

Essential Leadership Functions 

Act with Integrity and Build Trust 

• Demonstrate mutual respect, humility, and honesty in all interactions 

• Speak up appropriately, even when expressing unpopular viewpoints 

• Actively listen and remain open-minded to diverse perspectives 

Drive for Results 

• Set clear goals and objectives to motivate self and others to achieve outcomes 

• Seek new opportunities to improve processes and drive sustainable results 

• Hold self and others accountable through consistent evaluation and monitoring 

Develop Talent and Effective Teams 

• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and growth 

• Provide mentorship and support to help self and others reach full potential 

• Recognize and leverage diverse strengths within self and team 

Lead with Vision and Strategy 

• Understand and communicate a compelling vision that aligns with organizational goals 

• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to achieve long-term objectives 

• Connect daily work to the bigger picture, inspiring self and others to contribute meaningfully 

Lead with Paradoxical, Critical, and Agile Thinking 

• Navigate complex situations by considering multiple perspectives 

• Adapt quickly to changes and uncertainties in the work environment 

• Make critical decisions using analytical skills, experience, and input from others 

Build and Maintain Effective Relationships 

• Communicate and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organization 

• Influence others through coaching, consulting, and team-minded thinking 

• Develop and sustain partnerships that create positive outcomes for all stakeholders 

Cultivate Community Engagement and Provide Excellent Service 

• Understand and address the needs and concerns of the community 

• Incorporate community perspectives into decision-making processes 

• Drive initiatives that create positive impacts beyond the organization 

Essential Job Functions

Conduct youth intake and admission procedures, including documentation, legal paperwork, and property inventory.
Always provides direct supervision of youth including during meals, recreation, education, chores, and structured programming.
Observe, document, and report youth behaviors and progress in case management systems.
Provide emotional support, including teaching self-regulation and positive coping strategies.
Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly facility; assist with meals, laundry, and housekeeping tasks.
Respond to emergencies using appropriate crisis-management and safety protocols, including evacuation and CPR.
Attend required trainings and meetings; stay compliant with state regulations and program standards.
Uphold confidentiality and maintain professional, respectful communication with youth, families, and coworkers.

Physical Demands: Regular walking, standing, bending, and lifting of light items; occasional lifting or physically restraining of youth during emergency situations. Adequate vision, listening, and verbal communication are essential for proper supervision.

Related Job Function

This job description is not intended to encompass every job duty or responsibility but is only illustrative. This position is required to perform other duties as may be assigned or required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Understanding of adolescent development (typical and atypical).
Knowledge of trauma-informed care and the impacts of ACEs.
Familiarity with juvenile justice standards, including DOC 346, PREA, and court processes.
Skills in positive behavioral interventions, de-escalation, and crisis response.
Cultural competency and respect for diverse backgrounds and identities.
Knowledge of safety and security protocols, searches, and contraband prevention.
Basic awareness of mental health, suicide risk, and medication procedures.
Strong documentation skills, including case notes and incident reporting.
Knowledge of community resources (education, vocational programs, counseling, re-entry).
Clear, respectful communication with youth, families, and professionals.
Conflict resolution and mediation abilities.
Strong observational and risk-assessment skills.
Crisis intervention skills, both verbal and physical when necessary.
Ability to build trusting youth relationships while maintaining boundaries.
Group facilitation skills for structured programming.
Strong organization and time-management skills.
Ability to work within multidisciplinary teams.
Computer literacy for documentation and reporting.
Emotional regulation and resilience in high-stress situations.
Ability to make sound decisions quickly under pressure.
Physical stamina for daily supervision and emergency response.
Consistent and fair enforcement of rules.
Protection of youth confidentiality and adherence to ethical standards.
Encouragement of youth development, mentorship, and goal setting.
Strong safety awareness and risk identification.

Training & Experience Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Post-secondary education in criminal justice, human services, or related fields preferred.
Experience in juvenile justice, corrections, or human services preferred.
Verification of prior employment required under Wisconsin law.
Ability to work varied shifts and remain onsite for 8–16 hours.
Completion of the 184-hour Secure Detention Officer Certification within the first year; annual recertification required.
Successful completion of reference checks, physical evaluation, drug screen, and criminal background check (no felony convictions).
Per DOC 346.15(3) Staff of the same gender as the youth population must be on duty in living areas; finalists may be evaluated based on this bona fide occupational qualification.