Juvenile Probation Counselor – Probation Unit

Why This is a Great Opportunity

Pierce County Juvenile Court is an innovative leader in the youth justice field. It is home to where reform policies, practices, and programs are nationally recognized. Pierce County Juvenile Court was one of two sites in the nation to be selected to pursue Probation Transformation in partnership with the Annie

E. Casey Foundation. The Juvenile Court system is proud to be a national leader in working with young people and families to address systemic racism and improve outcomes for everyone in our community. Even with the successes in our reform journey, we know that there is more work to do as the structure of our current system is designed to produce disparate outcomes for BIPOC children and families, as well as marginalized communities.

Success in this position is measured by the ability to build and sustain positive relationships, coach, teach and mentor young people while maintaining healthy boundaries. Keeping the safety and security of young people and staff as priority, by using successful behavioral management skills and de-escalation techniques. Responding to situations that arise through a trauma-informed lens and with a compassionate approach will also contribute to the success of the individual in this role.

• Ability to work in a high conflict environment and remain strength-based while supporting cases moving forward in a way that leads to positive outcomes for young people and families.
• Ability to think critically, challenge assumptions, combat bias and advocate through the lens/values of the young people and families you serve, even when they may differ from your own.
• Be culturally humble and responsive.
• Write and speak in a persuasive way.
• Respond to situations that arise and to individuals through a trauma-informed and anti-racist lens.
• Secondary trauma is a reality in our work. The ability to be mindful and be healthy will ensure long term success in the field of child welfare.

As the justice system continues to improve and reform, we welcome forward thinking, creative, and compassionate people who thrive working in ever changing and innovative environments. This position has opportunities for professional development, leadership, and training, as well as creating many connections within child welfare, education, mental health, community resources, substance use disorder, poverty and other areas that impact the young people and families we serve.

Pierce County Juvenile Court probation department is committed to making a powerful contribution to the health and safety of our community. Through a race equity and inclusion focus, we envision a safe, connected community where all youth and families are supported and empowered to build on their strengths so they can reach their potential. By actively engaging with youth and families, we are building positive and trusting relationships that best advocate for the needs of our families.

Our role is to ensure every family and youth are well informed throughout their interaction with the court and receive the right resources and supports to be successful. Subsequently, every youth and family should feel valued and empowered throughout their experience and enabled to transition successfully into the community.

• Meet young people and families in their homes, in the community, at schools, etc. Build relationships with young people and all parties involved with a case.
• Gather fact-based information to make informed recommendations to the court and ensure the court has all relevant information to make well informed decisions.
• Participate in the court process – write court reports, file and respond to motions, testify at trials and court hearings.
• Facilitate relationships and advocate outside of court to ensure a child and family’s needs are being met by the system and community.
• Collaborate with parents, service providers, agencies, or other support systems in the lives of the young people served, to form a support network for them and their family for their long-term success.
• Facilitate/co-facilitate in teaching groups of young people…