Juvenile Justice Specialist -Group Leader

Office of Juvenile Justice

Acadiana Center for Youth – Bunkie, Louisiana 71322

The Office of Juvenile Justice is seeking a dedicated and confident Juvenile Justice Specialist 4 - Group Leader to support youth development and maintain safety within a secure-care environment. This role is ideal for someone who leads by example, communicates with clarity, and thrives in a structured, mission-driven setting.

As a Group Leader, you’ll supervise youth, support therapeutic programming, and help create an environment that promotes positive behavior and emotional growth. You’ll conduct security checks, monitor movement, respond to crises, and ensure daily operations run smoothly and safely. You’ll also supervise unit staff, manage schedules, complete documentation, and participate in treatment team meetings to support individualized care.

If you’re steady under pressure, committed to youth rehabilitation, and ready to take on a leadership role that makes a meaningful impact, this position offers a rewarding opportunity to support OJJ’s mission and help shape positive outcomes for youth.

• Possession of a high school diploma or GED or one year of experience in any field.
• Two years of experience in a residential, correctional, behavioral health, or group home setting with responsibility for rehabilitation of delinquent youth, clinical care, custody, or security; OR
• Two years of experience in Probation and Parole.

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
• An applicant who has been convicted of a felony or who is under indictment on a felony charge will be disqualified until relief from disabilities imposed by state and federal laws is granted.
• In accordance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) (Part 115:17) of Title 28 of the Code of Federal Regulations an applicant who has been found to have engaged in any form of sexual abuse; engaged in sexual activity in the community facilitated by force, overt or implied threats of force, or coercion, or if the victim did not consent or was unable or refused will be disqualified.
• The incumbent must not have been convicted or pled nolo contendere to a crime listed in R.S. 15:587.1 (c).

• Supervises youth and supports treatment – Oversees youth in assigned areas, models communication and problem-solving skills, and contributes to a therapeutic environment.
• Participates in treatment programming – Attends treatment team meetings, provides behavioral observations, and assists clinical staff with group and therapeutic activities.
• Maintains security and safety – Conducts building and perimeter checks, monitors youth movement, enforces contraband-control policies, and responds to emergencies.
• Provides crisis intervention – Intervenes during disturbances or high-risk situations while maintaining calm, control, and adherence to policy.
• Supervises and schedules staff – Oversees subordinate unit staff, approves leave, ensures coverage, and conducts annual Planning & Rating Sessions.
• Completes documentation and reports – Prepares required reports and maintains accurate records per agency and facility regulations.
• Engages in professional development – Participates in educational programs and performs additional duties as assigned.

Work Location: Acadiana Center for Youth, Bunkie, Louisiana.

Appointment Type: Full-time, probationary.

Compensation: Special Entrance Rate of $1,842.40 biweekly.

Background Requirements: Candidate must pass a drug screening test, possess a valid Louisiana Driver's License, and clear a background check.

The Office of Juvenile Justice is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency that supports improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. For more information on employment-related resources available for those with disabilities, refer to the Louisiana Employment Resource Guide.

If you are contacted for an interview, please let us know at that time if you will need special accommodations.