General Description

This position provides direct care and supervision/security for juveniles in a post-adjudicated residential treatment facility. The officer provides support, guidance and enrichment to residents who may be experiencing crisis. The officer implements and supervises the activities of the resident daily schedule.

Duties and Responsibilities

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.

• Fulfill all duties related to his/her assignment as directed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. This includes, but is not limited to, all policies in accordance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), Texas Family Code, Texas Education Code, Bell County Employee Handbook, Bell County Juvenile Services, and Facility policies and procedures. Duties include, but are not limited to: supervision of residents assigned to the Program, paperwork, transportation (as needed), etc.
• Keep the Program Chain of Command advised of all critical situations that may arise, working as a team with all personnel.
• Always maintain his/her appearance and appropriate professional behavior.
• Address behavioral issues/concerns to ensure compliance and understanding while fostering a proactive and positive environment.
• Assist staff during any situation that requires the use of Handle with Care (the Department/program recognized physical restraint/behavior modification system) and the department approved behavior management program.
• Work a schedule that will involve working weekends, evenings, or nights (shift work).
• Supervise residents in program activities such as meals, showers, school, indoor and outdoor recreation, and parental visitation.
• Conduct searches as required to control contraband.
• Perform housekeeping tasks as needed to maintain facility cleanliness.
• Maintain daily activity logs and reports as required.
• Write discipline and or incident reports as required.
• Notify immediate supervisor at least two hours prior to shift if calling in sick.
• Maintains daily check sheets for the residents assigned to his/her supervision. The check sheets will contain officer name, resident attendance, resident behavior, and codes for resident behavior.
• Never leave a resident unsupervised. If an officer needs to leave, he or she will not leave until a relief is found.
• Never allow one resident to supervise or sanction another resident.
• Eat (if the officer elects to) when the residents eat and what the residents are served.
• Must be able to observe, monitor and provide documented feedback for staff completing required on the job training hours after the completion of the new hire academy.
• Must be available to attend/provide training sessions during new hire training academies and be available to provide training as needed and/or in conjunction with the Training Coordinator.
• Perform other related duties as may be assigned by the Department Chain of Command.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

1. Associates Degree from an accredited college preferred; High School diploma or G.E.D required.
2. Previous experience working with youth/adolescents preferred, but not required
3. Must have a valid Texas Driver's License and proof of adequate liability insurance.
4. Must have a personal vehicle that is dependable for day-to-day transportation.
5. Must possess physical stamina to handle potential physical outbursts of violent youth and be able to restrain a youth who is resisting.
6. Must have the ability to work with a diverse population.
7. Must be of good moral character.
8. No staff member may possess, while on duty, any firearm, illegal weapons, or chemical agents.

Other Qualifications:

Regular attendance is essential. Incumbent must arrive at work on time, prepared to perform assigned duties and work assigned schedule. Incumbent must have the ability to work well with others. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the position without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves and others. Must be able to effectively use computer software and data systems. Bell County will conduct background checks that will include a criminal background check and may include motor vehicle records, employment records or educational attainment. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Individual positions may vary slightly in function and requirement.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance

Bell County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.