Protective Services Specialist-Temporary Assignment

• Transporting residents to and from Juvenile Detention Facility when necessary
• Monitoring and enforcing security procedures and department policies and rules
• Participating in the maintenance of the building, grounds, and department equipment; performs laundry duties as necessary
• Coordinating shift tasks with other counselors; providing support, guidance, and back-up to co-workers as necessary
• Maintaining basic discipline and applies disciplinary measures for residents, including restraints as appropriate
• Directing and supervising daily physical education activities, including dining, recreational, personal hygiene, and housekeeping activities in a secured facility
• Coordinating and/or participating in special programs and projects as assigned.
• Eating with residents each meal, supervising seating and serving, as well as table manners and general behavior
• Inspecting resident's rooms to ensure compliance with all facility policies and procedures concerning possessions, cleanliness, etc.; searches residents for contraband
• Performing related work as required
• Counseling residents and conducts psycho-educational groups as required
• Attending staff meetings for the purpose of exchanging information
• Attending meetings and training seminars to enhance job knowledge and skills and to maintain certifications
• Encouraging youths to participate in activities provided by the Center, supervising their participation in comprehensive activity programs including basic arts and crafts, sports, and table games; instructs and participates directly in various phases of the program
• Providing for resident's needs, including the delivery of linens, and supplies
• Maintaining daily log, preparing reports and other documents related to daily activities
• Assisting in admissions and release procedures for residents

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Considerable knowledge of processes and procedures within the juvenile justice industry such as processing and working with detainees; and maintaining safety and order. Considerable knowledge of various mental health behavioral needs of detained youth. Considerable skills operating computer programs such as Microsoft Office suite, electronic databases, and related software applications such as Badge or Empower. Considerable ability to communicate with various internal and external departments. Ability to de-escalate adverse situations. Must have the ability to maintain confidentiality, established procedures, use critical thinking, and utilize independent judgment.
MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications
• Two (2) years of experience, preferably in a secure detention environment or with at-risk youth
• Bachelor's degree is preferred
• Associate's degree in human services, social work, criminal justice, or related field

• A valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License within 30 days of hire
• CPR and first aid certification is required within a time-frame established by the City after the initial hire date
• Successful completion of specialized departmental training
• A valid Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record. (Please note: A candidate’s DMV record can have no more than 6 demerit points in one year. Additionally, a candidate with a DWI/DUI conviction within 3 years of the date of application or of the date of hire automatically disqualifies an applicant. Conviction of more than one DWI/DUI automatically disqualifies an applicant).

• Previous experience working in corrections or working with incarcerated youth in a secured facility.
• Excellence in communication skills and critical thinking

With over 4,000 employees, the City of Richmond is an "Employer of Choice" among cities throughout the nation. The City strives to hire and retain employees who bring dedication and talent to the workforce. Offering a competitive, cost effective, and quality benefits package is one element of an "Employer of Choice".
The City offers a full range of benefit programs from initial hire through retirement. Please visit our Web site for details.