Unit Manager - Detention

General Description

Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefit package and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment.

Unit Managers are responsible for providing direction, assigning work, and managing the activities of staff in the Hulse Juvenile Detention Center. They coach, counsel, motivate and encourage staff members in their work monitoring residents' behavior, while supporting and guiding the juveniles in their care. Unit Managers also participate in the daily living routine of the residents and are expected to be involved in any volatile resident situation(s).

Hours of Work

• 3PM-11PM, Sunday-Thursday, as well as on-call responsibilities.

Essential Functions

• Leads a team of dedicated, professional, juvenile counselors..
• Designs strategies and sets goals for employee growth.
• Trains and develops employees.
• Participates in department training, employee development, and community education activities.

• Attends and participates in meetings to keep current on laws and policies regarding the field of juvenile justice.
• Evaluates the work of employees and takes appropriate action in personnel matters.

• Attends case staffing and assists with recommendations.
• Complete injury reports through Insightonline.
• Ensures policies and standards are being followed
• Participates in interviews and makes recommendations for hiring and transfers.
• Complete timecards.
• Regularly reads through the log as well as observes to ensure that officers are effectively using EBP modalities such as EPICS-II and Carey Guides, andusing de-escalation techniques, restraints, and room time in accordance to policy and best practice..
• Prepares correspondence and reports.
• Reviews all incident and room confinement reports for accuracy grammar.

Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required

• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Knowledge of applicable collective bargaining agreements.
• High emotional intelligence.
• Advanced interpersonal, managerial, and leadership skills necessary to provide effective guidance to subordinate personnel and to develop cooperative working relationships with employees, management, appointed department heads, elected officials and vendors.
• Using tact, discretion, initiative, and independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Strong understanding of the juvenile justice system including federal, state, local laws and ordinances related to the area of assignment.
• Strong communication skills.
• Knowledge of best practice detention standards including Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice Detention Standards and the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts Detention Standards.
• Able to prepare moderately complex documents utilizing various computer applications related to work.
• Strong knowledge of administrative principles and practices, including goal setting and implementation.
• General knowledge of evidence-based practices in the field of juvenile justice including core correctional practices.

• Collaboration skills while working in a team environment.
• Ability to problem solve.

Education and/or Work Experience and Other Requirements

• Candidates for this position are required to have two years of related experience, preferably at a senior level. Candidates must also apply to the AOIC for certification in a “Supervisory” position. This certification is required by AOIC for promotion eligibility. The following is a link to the required form:
• Experience working with youth in a juvenile justice setting preferred.
• Bachelors’ Degree in criminal justice, social services, or a related field

https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/documents-and-forms/employment-application/

Other Qualifications

• Must be able to pass a criminal background check and a check of the child abuse registry.
• A citizen of the United States
• Resident of Illinois
• Valid Illinois driver's license

Supplemental Information

Supplemental Information
Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefit package. We also offer flexible working hours, and a comprehensive wellness and training program. Visit our Prospective Employee page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County!

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre-employment medical exam.

Lake County is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.