Youth Justice​/YFDS Human Services Paraprofessional

Position Summary

This paraprofessional role supports the Youth & Family Development Services (YFDS) Unit by facilitating evidence-informed group programming and providing individualized mentoring and skill development services to youth primarily involved in the Youth Justice system.

• 60% – Coordinate and deliver evidence-based programming designed to promote positive youth development and reduce risk factors associated with delinquent behaviors. Activities include collaborating with Youth Justice staff to identify interventions, facilitating approved curricula, providing individualized skill-building interventions such as Carey Guides and Aggression Replacement Training, monitoring participation and progress, documenting in eWiSACWIS, and participating in multidisciplinary meetings.
• 15% – Coordinate and oversee community service programming while promoting accountability, skill development, and positive community engagement. Duties include developing partnerships with community service sites, assessing and assigning youth to placements, maintaining records, and representing YFDS at partner meetings.
• 10% – Collaborate effectively with Youth Justice workers, CPS Case Managers, and other multidisciplinary partners to ensure coordinated service delivery. Tasks include preparing documentation, and participating in staffing, case consultations, and joint meetings.
• 10% – Provide transportation to support youth participation in programming, services, and community-based activities, ensuring safe and professional transport to and from appointments and events.
• 5% – Perform additional duties assigned to support the goals and operations of the Youth & Family Development Services Unit.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with youth, families, community partners, and a multidisciplinary team.
• Skill in engaging, motivating, and building rapport with high-risk youth and their families.
• Sound judgment and independent decision-making.
• Capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, meeting documentation deadlines.
• Knowledge of adolescent development, trauma-informed practices, and evidence-based interventions for youth.
• Knowledge of de-escalation strategies and response to challenging behaviors.
• Knowledge of community resources and service systems for children, youth, and families.
• Willingness and ability to travel throughout the county, including use of a personal vehicle.
• Proficiency in maintaining accurate records and utilizing electronic documentation systems.
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices that improve outcomes for justice-involved youth.

• 60 college or college‑transferable credits (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
• Emphasis in counseling, social work, psychology, human services, criminal justice, or related training and experience.
• Current unrestricted driver's license and auto insurance, in accordance with Rock County Administrative Policy and Procedure Policy 5.02.

• Ability to walk, stand, and sit for extended periods.

• Ability to use a computer and keyboard.
• Ability to use a copier, fax, scanner, and telephone.
• Typing notes regularly and using Microsoft Word and Excel.

• Work in multiple office locations across Northern and Southern Rock County.
• Valid driver's license required for travel between sites, meetings, and transportation of youth.
• Majority of work occurs at Diversion Programs community sites; office space available in Janesville and Beloit.
• Typical hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Monday–Friday with a 1‑hour lunch break; flexibility for evening and weekend hours as needed.

This position is open and actively seeking qualified candidates.