Juvenile Justice Support Specialist

Secure Residential Treatment
Springfield, MA 01129, USA

Make a Difference. Help Youth Build a Better Future.

Looking to start or grow your career in Juvenile Justice? CHD's Juvenile Justice Program is seeking compassionate, dedicated, and motivated Residential Support Specialists to join our team. Working in partnership with the Department of Youth Services (DYS), you'll play a critical role in supporting young people as they develop the skills, accountability, and confidence needed to create positive life changes.

This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in the juvenile justice field while making a meaningful impact in the lives of youth. Whether you're pursuing a career in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Counseling, Law Enforcement, or Human Services, you'll develop valuable skills in youth advocacy, crisis intervention, behavior management, and rehabilitation.

Why Join Our Team?

As a Residential Support Specialist, you'll gain valuable experience working directly with justice‑involved youth in a structured treatment environment. This role offers an opportunity to develop skills in:

• Juvenile justice and youth rehabilitation
• Crisis intervention and conflict resolution
• Case management and advocacy
• Group facilitation and counseling support
• Behavior management and positive youth development
• Trauma‑informed care and relationship building

Every day, you'll help youth recognize their strengths, make responsible choices, and work toward a successful future.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision and support to youth in daily program activities
• Build positive relationships that foster growth, accountability, and personal development
• Provide advocacy, guidance, and counseling support to residents
• Facilitate and participate in group meetings and skill‑building activities
• Monitor resident movement and ensure program safety and security
• Utilize program policies and interventions to support positive behavior change
• Orient new residents to program expectations and routines
• Complete documentation, including Daily Log entries and incident reporting
• Maintain a safe, structured, and supportive environment for youth and staff
• Adapt to changing situations and respond effectively to program needs

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Human Services, Education, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered
• Interest in juvenile justice, youth development, behavioral health, or social services
• Understanding of adolescent development and behavioral dynamics preferred
• Strong communication, relationship‑building, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work effectively in a secure residential setting
• Valid driver's license and reliable vehicle for work‑related transportation
• Ability to successfully complete medication administration training
• Ability to pass all required background screenings
• Previous experience working in residential care, juvenile justice, youth services, corrections, education, coaching, mentoring, or behavioral health is welcome but not required.

Training & Professional Development

All newly hired staff must attend a three‑week DYS Basic Training Academy (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM). This comprehensive training provides a strong foundation in juvenile justice practices, youth engagement, safety protocols, and behavior management.

Compensation

Based on experience and education starting rate is $20.00 an hour, combined with a phenomenal benefit package that includes Dental, Health and Life insurance. Paid time off, earned vacation time and paid holidays just to name a few.

Join Us

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