TJJD - Juvenile Correctional Officer II​/III​/IV GNS

Agency Information

We are committed to transforming lives and building safer communities by working collaboratively, communicating openly, and upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Our team models accountability, transparency, and respect while ensuring the physical and emotional safety of youth, staff, and the community. We strive for excellence through continuous growth, thoughtful decision making, and mission‑driven collaboration, supporting one another while embracing challenges that lead to meaningful, long‑term impact.

Provides supervision and direct care for youth in a residential correctional facility. Supports youth in achieving progress in learning and applying techniques to manage stress, trauma, and behavioral challenges. Maintains safe environments, employs security measures, and interacts with youth to sustain structure and promote healthy relationships.

This position is part of the approved Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) career ladder for Juvenile Correctional Officers (JCO). Personnel in this career ladder receive salary adjustments upon meeting established eligibility criteria and progression depends on experience, education, and performance.

Newly hired or rehired JCOs separated for more than 18 months must attend the pre‑service training academy and complete full‑time on‑the‑job training. JCOs returning within 18 months of separation are not required to attend the academy.

• Juvenile Correctional Officer II:
  Performs moderately complex work under general supervision with limited latitude for initiative.
• Juvenile Correctional Officer III:
  Performs complex work under general supervision with moderate latitude for initiative.
• Juvenile Correctional Officer IV:
  Performs highly complex work under limited supervision with substantial latitude for initiative.

• Engage in competency‑based training and apply Texas Model of trauma‑informed corrections techniques.
• Hold youth accountable and facilitate learning of socially acceptable responses.
• Use good judgment to assess safety risks and determine appropriate intervention levels.
• Assist youth in identifying stress triggers and developing emotional self‑regulation skills.
• Model self‑regulation and remain calm during times of stress and crisis.
• Support youth in meeting individual treatment goals and resolving conflicts.
• Participate in the Youth Service Team and contribute to treatment planning.
• Maintain predictable and transparent schedules for youth, adjusting as needed.
• Implement and monitor individual and group activities to promote healthy engagement.
• Observe and report significant behavioral or treatment‑related conditions.
• Provide services to potentially aggressive or combative youth and conduct follow‑up debriefings.
• Maintain security throughout buildings, grounds, and posts; intervene during emergencies.
• Conduct searches for contraband and health/safety hazards, including room, property, and strip searches.
• Supervise youth during all daily activities, manage movements, conduct headcounts, and transport as necessary.
• Maintain privacy and follow all policies regarding youth records.
• Complete required records, files, and forms in a timely and accurate manner.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
• Report safety hazards and complete documentation for accidents or injuries within requested time frames.
• Attend work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with attendance and leave policies.
• Travel up to 25% of the time.
• Actively embody and support the Texas Model core values in daily tasks and interactions.

• Certification in TJJD’s Use of Force techniques, including physical restraint of juveniles.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR.
• Failure to maintain required certifications results in termination.
• Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.
• Demonstrated commitment to the Texas Model core values.

• Knowledge of safety and security procedures.
• Knowledge of counseling and guidance techniques with adolescents.
• Knowledge of facility…