Correctional Officer Juvenile

About the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ)

The Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is committed to transforming the lives of at‑risk youth through rehabilitation, education, and mentorship. As a Juvenile Correctional Specialist (JCS), you'll play a vital role in providing direct care, supervision, and guidance to residents within a secure correctional environment while promoting their personal growth and preparing them for successful reentry into the community.

The Juvenile Correctional Specialist (JCS) position is based at the Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center
, a 24/7 secure facility located in Chesterfield, Virginia
. JCS staff work 12‑hour shifts
, including nights, weekends, and holidays, ensuring the safety, security, and rehabilitation of committed youth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise and monitor youth activities in housing units, classrooms, recreational areas, and dining halls.
• Maintain facility security by conducting routine safety checks and searches.
• Implement and reinforce positive behavior strategies while de‑escalating conflicts.
• Intervene during behavioral crises using safe, approved techniques.
• Document incidents, observations, and interactions in clear, accurate reports.
• Serve as a role model and mentor, promoting responsibility, accountability, and respect.
• Participate in multidisciplinary treatment teams to support youth rehabilitation.
• Foster a safe, therapeutic living environment that encourages personal growth.

To qualify for the Juvenile Correctional Specialist role, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age: Must be at least 21 years old
  .
• Education: High school diploma or GED required; college coursework preferred.
• Driver’s License: Valid Virginia driver’s license
  .
• Knowledge:
  • Conflict resolution and crisis intervention techniques.
  • Safety and security practices in a residential or secure setting.
  • Adolescent development and behavior management.
• Skills:
  • Ability to assess situations quickly and respond appropriately.
  • Strong communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to perform physical intervention and restraint techniques (training provided).

• Experience working with at‑risk youth
  , adjudicated juveniles
  , or correctional settings
  .
• Experience facilitating or implementing treatment programs
  .
• Familiarity with trauma‑informed care and adolescent development.

All new Juvenile Correctional Specialists must complete:

• Basic Skills Training: 3‑week mandatory training at the Virginia Public Safety Training Center in Hanover, VA
  .
  • Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Ongoing Training: Continued professional development, certifications, and advancement opportunities.

• 12‑hour shifts: Day or night, including weekends and holidays.
• Mandatory Overtime: Required during staffing shortages, emergencies, or peak workload periods.
• Shift Assignments: Based on facility needs at the time of hire.

• Starting Salary: $44,100 per year
  .
• Sign‑On Bonus: Up to $6,000 for eligible hires, paid in two installments.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement: Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS).
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays annually.
• Tuition Assistance: Opportunities for continued education.
• Professional Development: Training and promotional advancement.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and wellness resources.