Programming Administrator - Division of Youth Services

Department Information

This position is open only to Colorado state residents. This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies at the locations below.

The Division of Youth Services (DYS) provides a continuum of residential and non-residential services that encompass juvenile detention, commitment, and parole. DYS is statutorily mandated to provide for the care and supervision of youth committed by the District Court to the custody of the Colorado Department of Human Services. The Division operates fifteen secure facilities that serve youth ages 10 to 21 and contracts with private residential and non-residential service providers throughout the State.

This role serves as the Programming Administrator for all DYS facilities statewide, overseeing the development, implementation, and enforcement of all youth programming, behavioral management, youth wellness, and daily care operations standards.

• Development, implementation, and administration of statewide youth programming and care operations.
• Central authority for behavioral management, daily operations, youth rights and protections, and volunteer and provider management.
• Implementation of the Sanctuary Model trauma-informed framework, ensuring fidelity to its seven commitments.
• Preparation for external audits, assessment of audit findings, and direction of corrective action plans.
• Development, implementation, and continuous improvement of programming and care training curricula for staff.
• Leadership and performance oversight of assigned programming and youth care operations staff, including schedule creation, priority setting, performance evaluations, and coaching.

• Serve as division’s lead administrator for the Sanctuary Model, integrating its principles across all youth centers.
• Conduct regular travel to all facilities to assess programming operations and ensure compliance with Division standards.
• Assist in preparation for external audits and develop corrective action plans.
• Develop and maintain training curricula and oversee sustainability of the Sanctuary Model across all facilities.
• Provide direct supervision of assigned staff, coordinate with youth center leadership, Quality Assurance, and external stakeholders.

• Nine (9) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to this position, or a combination of related education and experience equivalent to nine years.

• Direct experience developing, implementing, or administering programming or daily care operations in a residential, juvenile justice, child welfare, or detention/correctional setting.
• Experience designing or administering behavioral management systems or evidence-based positive behavior support practices for youth.
• Demonstrated supervisory or leadership experience, including assignment of work, setting priorities, performance evaluations, and coaching staff.
• Knowledge of relevant licensing body regulations and state or federal regulations such as PREA, ACA, and the Juvenile Justice Reform Act.
• Relatable experience as a current or previous State of Colorado employee.

• Minimum age 21, no felony convictions or history of domestic violence.
• Full background and reference check, Motor Vehicle Record check, and valid, non-restricted Colorado driver’s license required.
• State of Colorado residency at time of application and throughout employment.
• Travel across 12 youth centers statewide; expected presence 4–5 days per week, with 30–40% travel outside the Denver metro area.
• Successful completion of the DYS Pre-service Training Academy, Field Training Program (FTO), and mandatory annual training is required for continued employment.
• Subject to the Diana Screen sexual risk screening tool.

• PERA Defined Benefit or Defined Contribution Plan, 401(k), and 457 plans.
• Medical and dental health plans.
• Health Savings Account.
• Paid life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage.
• 11 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Employee Wellness program.
• Flexible schedules and remote work options for eligible positions.
• Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

• CDHS is committed to providing reasonable accommodations related to employment for qualified individuals with disabilities.
• Accommodations may include assistance during the application process, interviews, pre-employment testing, selection process, and performing essential job functions while minimizing undue hardship.

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments and encouraging applicants from all backgrounds and abilities.