Youth Services Specialist; SC)

Working with the Division of Youth Services is more than it seems. You will be working with staff to create a safe, therapeutic, and educational environment for youth in our day treatment and residential programs. To succeed in this position you will need to be empathetic, nonjudgmental, cooperative, encouraging, able-bodied, professional, and respectful; you must be able to communicate clearly, honestly and openly.

We also offer a variety of great benefits including health, dental, vision, paid holidays, cafeteria plans, retirement, and more. Join us and help make the difference for our youth today!

The current rate for this position is $2,415.40 semi-monthly. Individual(s) selected for this position may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g. shift, or time-of-service pay).

This is professional work in the coordination and development of comprehensive treatment, community collaboration, networking and related services for youth placed with the Missouri Division of Youth Services. This position will be responsible for the continued development, collaboration and networking with partnerships and community entities in all areas of the region.

The following tasks are the responsibility of the Youth Services Coordinator (Community Services Coordinator):

• Coordinates and evaluates a variety of specialized treatment programs, services, and community resources within an assigned region of the state such as education, health care, substance abuse, mental health, and employment.
• Coordinates and supervises the statewide dual jurisdiction process and the case management program; conducts reviews and monitors dual jurisdiction referrals; randomly reviews case files and attends case manager meetings; prepares summary reports for management
• Coordinates the intensive case monitoring program in the region; participates in recruiting, selecting, assigning, and evaluating intensive case monitors (trackers).
• Provides advice and assistance to staff and service coordination supervisors relating to case management, legal issues, quality assurance, court orders, and report requirements.
• Coordinates clients' employment opportunities utilizing workforce development centers and career fairs; monitors the jobs program to ensure appropriate utilization.
• Monitors the victim's rights notification program, safe school requirements, and court-ordered restitution to ensure compliance
• Performs other related work as assigned.

In addition to those identified in the previous levels:

Knowledge of the counseling principles, theories, and techniques used with families and individuals. Knowledge of the statutes, rules, and regulations relating to juvenile treatment programs and services, case management, dual jurisdiction, and the juvenile court diversion program. Knowledge of governmental and community resources available. Ability to match individual client needs with available services. Ability to conduct short term therapy with families, evaluate and plan treatment, and train others in family therapy.

Ability to interpret, explain, and apply applicable statutes, regulations, policies, and procedures.

One or more years of experience as a Youth Services Specialist (Service Coordinator) or Youth Services Supervisor (Youth Group Leader) with the Missouri Division of Youth Services. OR A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 15 earned credit hours in one or a combination of the following:
Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Counseling, Education, or a closely related field; and Three or more years of professional experience in the treatment of juveniles (12-17 years of age) which involved group or individual counseling techniques. OR…