SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST - ADOLESCENT CENTER

SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST - ADOLESCENT CENTERJob DescriptionPosted Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6:00 AMOverviewFLSA NON-EXEMPT: Male position that works 6:00pm to 6:00am with every other weekend off. The Adolescent Services Worker provides direct care, supervision, and support to youth residing in the County's juvenile detention center or shelter facility. Staff are responsible for ensuring safety, fostering youth development, and implementing program activities in compliance with Wisconsin D.C.F. 59 and DOC 346 State Statutes, as well as facility policies and procedures. This role requires maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive environment while consistently modeling positive behavior and upholding professional standards.Essential Leadership FunctionsAct with Integrity and Build TrustDemonstrate mutual respect, humility, and honesty in all interactionsSpeak up appropriately, even when expressing unpopular viewpointsActively listen and remain open-minded to diverse perspectivesDrive for ResultsSet clear goals and objectives to motivate self and others to achieve outcomesSeek new opportunities to improve processes and drive sustainable resultsHold self and others accountable through consistent evaluation and monitoringDevelop Talent and Effective TeamsFoster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and growthProvide mentorship and support to help self and others reach full potentialRecognize and leverage diverse strengths within self and teamLead with Vision and StrategyUnderstand and communicate a compelling vision that aligns with organizational goalsDevelop and execute comprehensive strategies to achieve long-term objectivesConnect daily work to the bigger picture, inspiring self and others to contribute meaningfullyLead with Paradoxical, Critical, and Agile ThinkingNavigate complex situations by considering multiple perspectivesAdapt quickly to changes and uncertainties in the work environmentMake critical decisions using analytical skills, experience, and input from othersBuild and Maintain Effective RelationshipsCommunicate and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organizationInfluence others through coaching, consulting, and team-minded thinkingDevelop and sustain partnerships that create positive outcomes for all stakeholdersCultivate Community Engagement and Provide Excellent ServiceUnderstand and address the needs and concerns of the communityDrive initiatives that create positive impacts beyond the organizationShow self-awareness and manage emotions effectively in challenging situationsSeek and respond constructively to feedback, even in the face of setbacksBalance empathy with accountability when leading self and working with othersEssential Job FunctionsConduct youth intake and admission procedures, including documentation, legal paperwork, and property inventory.Supervise and monitor youth during meals, recreation, education, chores, and structured programming.Observe, document, and report youth behaviors, concerns, and progress using case management systems.Provide emotional support and teach self-regulation and positive coping strategies.Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly facility environment; assist with meals, laundry, and housekeeping.Respond to emergencies with appropriate interventions, including crisis management, evacuation, and CPR.Attend required trainings and meetings; maintain compliance with all state and program requirements.Uphold confidentiality and demonstrate professional, respectful communication with youth, families, and staff.Physical Demands: Regular walking, standing, bending, and lifting light items; occasional lifting/dragging of youth during emergencies.Sensory Demands: Near/far vision, active listening, and verbal communication essential for supervision.Risk Exposure CategoriesDirect exposure to blood/body fluids during emergency interventionsIndirect exposure while assisting in related tasksNo expected exposure during standard tasksRelated Job FunctionThis job description is not intended to encompass every job duty or responsibility but is only illustrative. This position is required to perform other duties as may be assigned or required.Knowledge, Skills & AbilitiesKnowledgeAdolescent Development – Typical/atypical growth, emotional and social development.Trauma-Informed Care – Impact of ACEs, abuse, and neglect on youth behavior.Juvenile Justice System – DOC 346, PREA standards, court processes, and youth rights.Behavioral Management – Positive interventions, de-escalation, and crisis response.Cultural Competency – Respecting diversity of culture, race, gender identity, and socioeconomic background.Safety & Security – Emergency protocols, searches, contraband prevention, and facility operations.Health & Mental Health – Awareness of common diagnoses, suicide risk, and medication protocols.Case Management – Accurate record-keeping, progress notes, and incident documentation.Community Resources – Education, vocational, counseling, and re-entry supports.SkillsClear and respectful communication with youth, families, and professionals.Conflict resolution and mediation of disputes.Strong observation and assessment skills to monitor risks and behavior.Crisis intervention techniques, verbal and physical if necessary.Ability to build trusting relationships with youth while maintaining professional boundaries.Group facilitation for structured activities and discussions.Organization and time management to handle routines and documentation.Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams (probation, mental health, education, law enforcement).Computer literacy for documentation and reporting.AbilitiesMaintain professional boundaries while showing empathy and fairness.Adapt to changing youth needs and facility operations.Stay emotionally regulated in high-stress situations.Make sound decisions quickly under pressure.Demonstrate physical stamina for standing, walking, and emergency interventions.Enforce rules consistently and fairly.Protect confidentiality and uphold ethical standards.Encourage youth mentorship, growth, and goal setting.Identify risks and act with strong safety awareness.Training & Experience RequirementsHigh school diploma or GED required.Preference for post-secondary education in criminal justice, human services, or a related field.Prior experience in juvenile justice, corrections, or human services preferred.Verification of prior employment required under Wisconsin law.Availability to work varied shifts and remain onsite for 8–16 hours.Completion of 160-hour Secure Detention Officer Certification within the first year; must maintain annual 24-hour recertification.Must pass reference checks, physical evaluation, drug screen, and criminal background check (no felony convictions).Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.Per DOC 346.22(2)(d): Adolescent Services Workers of the same gender as the youth population must be on duty in living areas. Finalists may be considered based on this bona fide occupational qualification.Other DutiesThis description is not exhaustive. Employees may be required to perform additional tasks as assigned to support facility operations.J-18808-Ljbffr