Youth Services Behavioral Specialist; Juvenile Justice Officer II - Alexander JDC

Position:
Youth Services Behavioral Specialist (S)

Division:
Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention

Grade: NC05

Agency:
Department of Public Safety (North Carolina)

We are looking for passionate professionals who are dedicated to empowering court-involved youth, providing direct care and treatment that fosters behavioral change and supports public safety. This direct care position requires physical capability to restrain juveniles, strong commitment to confidentiality, and readiness to work variable schedules including weekends and holidays.

• Implement individual and group treatment plans to effect behavioral change required for youthful offender rehabilitation.
• Provide direct supervision and engagement at a Youth Development Center or Juvenile Detention Center, maintaining custody and safeguarding juveniles from each other.
• Work closely with court-ordered youth, ensuring compliance with legal orders, monitoring progress, and reporting appropriately.
• Maintain accurate treatment records, attend treatment team meetings, and collaborate with multidisciplinary staff.
• Participate in required training and certification programs, including Juvenile Justice Officer Basic Training Certification.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, or related field from an accredited institution; OR high school diploma/GED with four years of related human services experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Physical fitness capable of restraining juveniles and performing protective duties.
• US citizenship, minimum age 20 years.
• Valid driver’s license.

Additional Requirements

• Pass criminal background check, drug screening, psychological, sexual risk screening, and vision/hearing assessment.
• Complete the Juvenile Justice Officer Basic Training Certification Program (four weeks, classroom and physically demanding).
• Hold a valid Juvenile Justice Officer or Juvenile Court Counselor certification or be eligible to obtain certification.
• Eligible for state veteran or guard preference if applicable.

Annual salary increases with a step pay plan currently ranging Step 0 – $38,859 to Step 6 – $50,563 based on total months of related education and experience. A sign-on bonus of $3,000 is offered to eligible candidates who have not been a state employee in the last 12 months.

• Paid holidays, vacation, and paid parental leave.
• Health, Disability (Short & Long Term), and Dental insurance.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility for qualifying applicants.
• Retirement and 401(k) with employer match.

Applications must be submitted through the DPS website and include all supplemental information such as transcripts, DD‑214 for veteran preference, and other required documents. Supplemental questions are required and responses must reference education or experience listed on the application.

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a work environment free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Reasonable accommodation is provided for employees and applicants with disabilities. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety and its hiring authority are pursuant to the employment laws of the Commonwealth and federal law.

Contact:
Ariana Garcia – Email: ARIANA.GARCIA