
location_on2460, Susan Drive, Okaloosa County, Florida, 32536, United States
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is dedicated to enhancing public safety through high-quality, effective services for youth and families. Our mission is delivered by world-class professionals committed to building a stronger, safer Florida. We operate on the principle of "The Right Service, the Right Way, at the Right Time," treating each youth in our care as an individual to help shape them into productive citizens.
We honor the service of our nation's veterans and their families, actively supporting the hiring of service members and military spouses. DJJ values the contributions of those who have served and seeks to integrate that dedication into our workforce.
Working as a Juvenile Justice Detention Officer is one of the most rewarding and challenging career opportunities in the State of Florida. In this role, you will be the first DJJ employee to interact with juvenile offenders, making leadership, coaching, mentoring, and a genuine desire to work with youth essential qualities.
Your primary responsibility is to ensure public safety by providing a safe and secure environment for troubled youth within a structured setting. While we expect youth to be accountable for their actions, we strive to sustain a culture that promotes dignity and respect. You will play a critical role in recognizing signs of potential suicide or depression, addressing behavioral issues, and using conflict management skills to provide constructive feedback.
DJJ detention facilities operate 24/7/365. This position requires flexibility to work shift schedules, including rotating shifts, evenings, weekends, and holidays. There may be times when unplanned overtime or unscheduled double shifts are necessary to meet operational needs.
This is a pool announcement for multiple positions. Successful candidates will be required to complete a comprehensive background investigation, including sex offender checks, criminal background checks (state, local, and national), and pre-employment drug screening. Candidates must also pass an Ergometric's IMPACT Assessment and Training Test to measure suitability for working with juvenile justice-involved youth.
New hires must be certified in accordance with the Department's direct care training policy within 180 days of employment. For those not currently in the state system, the top-ranking candidates after the interview phase will be required to take this assessment.
The State of Florida is an equal opportunity employer. We support a drug-free workplace and comply with all applicable federal and state laws regarding reasonable accommodations for disabilities. Pursuant to Florida law, the staffing of facilities must adhere to male and female ratios based on the juvenile population; hiring decisions based on bona fide occupational qualifications do not constitute discrimination.
Veterans' Preference is granted to eligible candidates for Career Service vacancies. Veterans are encouraged to apply and must attach supporting documentation (such as DD Form 214) with their submission. Certain service members may also be eligible for waivers regarding postsecondary educational requirements.
Work model: On-site
2460, Susan Drive, Okaloosa County, Florida, 32536, United States
Florida
Veterans' Preference documentation (e.g., DD Form 214) to receive preference in employment and potential waivers for postsecondary educational requirements.
Skills: Conflict Management, Report Writing, Strip Searches, Ergometric's Impact Assessment.
Education: High school graduate or equivalent required.