Juvenile Probation Officer I/Case Manager

Juvenile Probation Officer I / Case Manager - Group 308/Step I

General Description

Works with youth that have been adjudicated by the Juvenile Court for delinquent conduct and placed in a residential setting. Assesses the programmatic needs of youth and develops case plans and evaluates progress towards goals. Responsible for the coordination and facilitation of the youth's multi-disciplinary team to determine the most appropriate courses of action to achieve the best outcomes for the youth, to include working with parents/guardians and stakeholders in preparation for the youth's return to the home and community. Ensures proper documentation is completed in a timely manner. Serves as liaison for youth placing agencies to the program.

Duties and Responsibilities

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.

• Fulfill all duties related to his/her assignment as directed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the United States Department of Justice. This includes, but is not limited to, all policies in accordance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), Texas Family Code, Bell County Employee Handbook, and Bell County Juvenile Services policies and procedures.
• Duties include, but are not limited to: supervision of staff and residents assigned to the Program, paperwork, transportation (as needed), etc.
• Must have the ability to work with a diverse population.
• Performs supervisory case management for youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
• Provides guidance for youth, assesses risks and needs (by validated screening instruments), prepares individualized case plans, makes appropriate community resource referrals, maintains contact with outside agencies related to referrals.
• Maintains current, accurate case records on all assigned youth.
• Works directly with the Court, the County Attorney's Office, Defense Attorneys,and service providers. Prepares reports and documents for the court and testifies when required.
• Keep the IMPACT Unit Supervisor advised of all critical situations that may arise and be able to work as a team with all personnel.
• Always maintain his/her appearance and appropriate professional behavior.
• Address behavioral issues/concerns of residents to ensure compliance, to include assisting staff during any situation that requires the use of Handle with Care and the department approved behavior management program.
• Conduct intakes for new resident admissions, to include the review of rules and policies, ensuring youth understand their rights under the law.
• Conduct on-going review of youth's behavior, school, and probation records, ensuring the orders of the court are followed. Maintenance of case files, to include psychological evaluations, school records, medical history, and/or any other information pertinent to the rehabilitation, service delivery and safety of the youth.
• Offers youth guidance in individual or group settings in goal setting, problem solving, communication skills, interpersonal relationships, self-concept, motivation or other topics deemed beneficial.
• Responsible for communications with the youth's placing agency, custodian and stakeholders.
• Conduct multi-disciplinary team meetings and progression reviews pertaining to youth's progress.
• Conduct orientation meetings and have direct contact with residents continually.
• Provide acute crisis intervention for youth who are violent, self-harming, or have indicated suicide.
• Conduct searches of persons and facilities as required to control contraband.
• Perform other related duties as may be assigned.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

• be at least 21 years of age;
• have no disqualifying criminal history;
• have no criminal history as described in 344.410(a) unless TJJD has reviewed it and determined the person is not ineligible for certification due to the criminal history;
• requires a Bachelor's degree in Social Services or related degree
• have acquired a high school diploma or its equivalent as specified in TAC344.204;
• never have had any type of certification revoked by TJJD;
• complete the training required by TAC§344; and
• pass the certification exam

Other Qualifications:

Regular attendance is essential. Incumbent must arrive at work on time, prepared to perform assigned duties and work assigned schedule. Incumbent must have the ability to work well with others. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the position without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves and others. Must be able to effectively use computer software and data systems. Bell County will conduct background checks that will include a criminal background check and may include motor vehicle records, employment records or educational attainment. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Individual positions may vary slightly in function and requirement.

Physical Demands:

• Individual works mostly indoors and some outdoors. Indoor work is in a well-lighted, air-conditioned office or facility setting with lifting of light materials and equipment.
• Must possess the physical stamina to address potentially hostile or physically aggressive clients and/or assist staff during any situation that requires the use of Handle with Care (the Department/Program recognized physical restraint/behavior modification system) and the department approved behavior management program.
• Potential for driving long distances when providing transportation to youth in county vehicles.

Unavoidable Hazards (Work Environment):

• Involves routine and frequent exposure to:
• Potentially hostile or physically aggressive youth.
• Face to face contact with diverse populations
• Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen.
• Potential for extreme noise levels

Special Certifications and Licenses:

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.
• Requires Juvenile Probation Officer Certification to be obtained after employment
• Requires Juvenile Supervision Officer Certification to be obtained after employment
• Requires CPR/First Aid Certification to be obtained after employment
• Requires Handle with Care Certification to be obtained after employment

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance

Bell County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the County to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.