Juvenile Court Counselor

Overview

Current employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity.

Pay Range: $35.88 - $43.99 Hourly

Department: Department of Community Justice (DCJ)

Job Type: Regular Represented

Exemption Status: United States of America (Non-Exempt)

Closing Date: February 17, 2026

The Opportunity: THIS WORK MATTERS! Do you want to help shape the next chapter for justice-involved youth and help them build a foundation for success? Do you believe that all youth are capable of turning their lives around? If you answered yes to these questions, this job may be for you!

The Department of Community Justice Juvenile Services Division (JSD) is seeking committed and compassionate Juvenile Court Counselors (JCC) to join our team. This recruitment may be used to fill both bilingual English/Spanish language required and non-bilingual positions.

JCCs serve as essential navigators for at-risk youth and their families within the court system, performing case management, evaluation, and supervision for at-risk youth and their families under ORS 419A.012.

Central to their work is the JSD evidence-based case management model which emphasizes an integrative and holistic approach, tailoring strategies to a youth’s strengths, culture, and environment. JCCs engage families and community partners to support proactive outcomes and balanced accountability for a youth’s successful transition out of the justice system.

Responsibilities include:

• Assist youth and families through the pre- and post-adjudication process in the court system using intake, investigation and supervision best practices.
• Provide probation supervision for low, medium, and high-risk youth using evidence-based strategies tailored to each youth’s issues, strengths, needs, culture, and environment.
• Be responsible for youth on diversion and probation, ensuring compliance with court orders.
• Monitor multiple dockets, conduct evaluations and make recommendations regarding a youth’s placement during the court process.
• Assess and make recommendations to the court to address youth and family needs.
• Provide evaluation, investigation, counseling, case planning, social services, and adjudication for juveniles and their families.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of contacts with youth.
• Engage families to provide proactive support during and after probation services.
• Utilize the JSD prescribed, evidence-based, integrative supervision and case management model.
• Maintain direct contact through office, home, and community visits to support specialized programs and long-term behavioral change.
• Transport youth between detention locations, court or placements as needed.
• Build and maintain relationships with community partners, including local law enforcement, to meet juvenile and family needs.

The Department is looking for experienced case managers with proficiency in:

• Knowledge of the juvenile justice system and court process.
• Knowledge of symptoms of physical/mental disorders, substance use, and adjustment problems of justice-involved youth.
• Knowledge of social casework theories and techniques, counseling, motivational interviewing, and adolescent development.
• Knowledge and experience with youth and families from culturally diverse backgrounds.
• Understanding of family dynamics, gender issues, cultural diversity, and individual differences.
• Familiarity with community resources supporting youth and families.
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills; ability to work with diverse clients, communities, and interdisciplinary teams including legal, law enforcement, and therapeutic partners.
• Highly organized with strong time-management and coordination skills.
• Ability to prepare well-written court reports.
• Flexibility in work style and hours; comfortable delivering services in client homes.
• Bilingual Spanish/English proficiency (for bilingual positions only) and ability to pass proficiency assessment.
• Knowledge of Multnomah County Core Competencies.

• Bachelor’s degree in child psychology, social work, counseling, criminal justice or related field or equivalent experience; AND
• Two years of professional counseling…