Youth Care Specialist I

About the Role

This position serves as the first level of custodial supervision for youth, dedicated to enforcing rules and regulations that ensure the care, security, and rehabilitation of young individuals. The role is fundamental to the daily operations of the facility, requiring an active, participatory approach to managing group activities, including recreation, education, treatment, and personal care.

You will be responsible for establishing and maintaining positive interpersonal relationships with youth to support their social adjustment. This involves interpreting facility procedures and disciplinary policies, monitoring behavior, and documenting observations through written and oral reports. The role also entails implementing security protocols, conducting regular checks of units and grounds, and escorting youth to internal and external appointments, often requiring the operation of a motor vehicle.

Hiring and Application Process

The selection process evaluates applicants based on a rating of their education, training, and experience as they relate to the job requirements. It is essential to provide complete and accurate information on the application and supplemental questionnaire, including specific dates of employment, job titles, and detailed summaries of course content for education and training. Narrative information provided must be supported by the history supplied on the application.

Once submitted, all future correspondence regarding your application will be sent via email. Applicants are encouraged to keep their contact information current and may view all correspondence in the "My Applications" tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.

Conditions of Hire and Orientation

Successful candidates must undergo pre-employment drug testing and a satisfactory criminal background check as conditions of hire. The recruiting agency may require the applicant to pay for the background check. All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment, held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and organized under an exclusive bargaining representative. Incumbents working four or more hours between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. receive a 5% shift differential pay.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware, including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. Individuals who use TDD may request auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or visiting delawarerelay.com. For assistance with accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or general applicant support, please call (302) 739-5458 or email jobs@delaware.gov.