Quality Assurance Officer

Under general direction, the Quality Assurance Officer (QAO) - Detention is responsible for overseeing internal compliance practices and coordinating all training and certification activities for the Judge Mario

E. Ramirez, Jr. Juvenile Justice Center. This position ensures that facility operations, staff practices, and youth services remain in alignment with the standards set forth in the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapters 343 and 344, as well as the requirements established by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD). The QAO – Detention conducts routine audits, develops and delivers training curriculum, maintains certification records, and supports ongoing efforts to enhance operational consistency and staff proficiency.

The role requires a high level of attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to interpret regulatory expectations while fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the facility.

• Conduct scheduled and unscheduled internal inspections of facility operations, youth files, video monitoring systems, and documentation to verify compliance with all TAC 343 and 344 requirements.
• Review, investigate, and assess operational practices to determine whether policies, safety measures, and detention standards are being followed consistently.
• Compile and maintain detailed records of findings, including reports, data logs, corrective action documentation, and supporting evidence.
• Develop and administer training programs for Juvenile Supervision Officers and other facility personnel, ensuring alignment with TJJD certification and recertification mandates.
• Facilitate new-hire onboarding, continuing education, and specialized training modules, including TBRI-based practices and approved curricula.
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate training files, certification records, attendance logs, and TJJD-required submission materials.
• Coordinate and monitor corrective action plans (CAPs) when deficiencies are identified through inspections or external reviews.
• Collaborate with leadership staff, department supervisors, and external entities to address compliance challenges and integrate updated procedures into daily operations.
• Review changes in administrative rules or regulatory guidance and recommend necessary revisions to internal policies and operational procedures.
• Assist with the preparation of documentation for external audits, inspections, and legal proceedings; testify when required to support the facility’s compliance record.
• Perform ongoing evaluations to ensure that corrective measures are implemented effectively and that the facility remains audit-ready throughout the year.
• Provide technical support, training guidance, and consultation to staff regarding regulatory standards, certification processes, and best-practice expectations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Behavioral Sciences, or a related field required.
• Five (5) years of experience in training, corrections, juvenile facility operations, or comparable work.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of TAC 343 and 344 and experience with quality assurance systems at the county or state level.
• Strong understanding of regulatory standards governing juvenile detention facilities, including TAC 343 and 344 and TJJD operational requirements.
• Ability to conduct inspections, interpret complex regulations, identify deficiencies, and recommend corrective strategies.
• Skill in developing and delivering training materials, both in classroom settings and through individualized instruction.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills required for preparing reports, documenting findings, presenting trainings, and interacting with staff and external reviewers.
• Proficiency in the use of computers, database systems, and electronic documentation tools necessary for compliance tracking and training record management.
• Ability to exercise discretion, sound judgment, and professionalism when addressing sensitive or challenging situations.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining accuracy and meeting established deadlines.
• Capacity to work independently and collaboratively, fostering a work environment centered on accountability, safety, and ongoing professional development.

• Must be eligible for certification as a Juvenile Supervision Officer by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD).
• Certification as a T4T (Training for Trainers) preferred.
• Active status as a TBRI Practitioner preferred.
• CPR, First Aid, and approved non-violent restraint certification (e.g., Handle With Care).
• Must have or obtain by hire date a valid driver’s license applicable to job responsibilities, with a driving record acceptable to the County of Hidalgo.
• Proof of automobile liability insurance required.