Security Operations Administrator - Division of Youth Services

Division of Youth Services – Central Administration Position Overview

Security Operations Administrator within the DYS Director’s Office. The role assists in defining agency goals and objectives around safety and security, administers facility operations for juvenile correctional facilities, and serves as the subject matter expert and owner of all safety and security practices statewide.

• Define agency goals and objectives around safety and security and develop, modify, and implement DYS policy for all areas related to safety and security.
• Revise existing policies and create detailed protocols for security practices to ensure uniform application across the Division.
• Oversee perimeter security inspections, control center operations, youth supervision, physical responses by employees, screening of visitors, use of protective devices, count policies, reporting critical incidents, searches, secure transports, abuse reporting, video monitoring and surveillance, and body‑worn cameras.
• Travel to DYS facilities and consult with staff in assigned security areas; assist in preparing facilities for audits and assessments.
• Collaborate with the Training Academy to develop and revise training curriculum for pre‑service and ongoing training for all DYS staff related to security.
• Review high‑profile critical incidents across DYS youth centers and provide post‑incident analysis of security procedures used, evaluating compliance with DYS security policy and making recommendations for improvement.
• Perform other duties as required.

• Nine (9) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position.
• OR a combination of related education and/or relevant experience equal to nine (9) years.

• Direct experience working in or overseeing security operations within a secure residential, prison, jail, juvenile justice, or detention facility.
• Experience developing, writing, and implementing security policies or standard operating procedures across multiple facilities.
• Experience conducting post‑incident reviews, root‑cause analyses, or after‑action investigations and translating findings into corrective action plans.
• Expert knowledge of security technologies used in secure facilities, including control center operations, key control, video monitoring and surveillance systems, and body‑worn cameras.
• Working knowledge of relevant licensing body regulations and state or federal corrections regulations such as PREA, ACA, and the Juvenile Justice Reform Act.
• Relatable experience as a current or previous State of Colorado employee.

• Minimum 21 years of age, with no felony convictions or history of domestic violence.
• Full background check and reference check required.
• State of Colorado residency at the time of application and throughout employment.
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check; possession of a valid, non‑restricted Colorado driver’s license.
• Travel required; expected presence at 12 youth centers across the state, including 30–40% out of Denver metro area.
• Continued employment contingent upon completion of the DYS Pre‑service Training Academy, Field Training Program (FTO), and mandatory annual training.
• Additional screening:
  Diana Screen® sexual risk screening tool administered; results may be used in selection.
• Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned will be required to disclose such information, explain the circumstances, and provide employee number; failure to disclose may disqualify the applicant.

• Retirement benefits: PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans.
• Medical and dental health plans.
• Employer‑supplemented Health Savings Account.
• Paid life insurance.
• Short‑and long‑term disability coverage.
• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave.
• State of Colorado Employee Benefit Hub Resource Center.
• Employee wellness program.
• Excellent work‑life programs, such as flexible schedules, training, and more.
• Remote work arrangements for eligible positions.
• Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer. It commits to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities.