Juvenile Detention Officer - Swing Shift

Position: Juvenile Detention Officer 2 - Swing Shift

Position Details

This is a 40 hour a week position, swing shift 3pm-11pm with midweek days off.

Rates of pay are for 2025.

Why This is a Great Opportunity

Pierce County has one of the most forward-thinking social rehabilitation programs in the country. Your passion for supporting, coaching and mentoring young people in the community, along with the skillsets you bring, will be valued here. The Juvenile Court system is proud to be a national leader in working with young people and families to address systemic racism and improve outcomes for all people in our community.

We welcome and embrace your diverse perspective and talents. We believe people and systems can change, and together, we will make a powerful impact in the community.

Our Guiding Principles

• We Practice Gratitude: Put relationships first and be thankful; a readiness to show appreciation for others and return kindness.
• We Value Differences: Appreciate and embrace differences in opinions, cultures, and experiences.
• We Maintain a Growth Mindset: Effort and perseverance are important; giving and receiving feedback is critical to improving skills and establishing grit. The focus is on the process; outcomes will follow.
• We Choose Courage Over Comfort: Willing to face challenging tasks and engage in difficult conversations with grace. We support each other in all times.
• We Practice Authenticity: Be genuine, speak your truth, and seek understanding of experiences that differ from your own.

How to be Successful in the Role

Success in this position is measured by the ability to build and sustain positive relationships, coach, teach and mentor young people while maintaining healthy boundaries.
Keeping the safety and security of young people and staff as priority, by using successful behavioral management skills and de-escalation techniques. Responding to situations that arise through a trauma informed lens and with a compassionate approach will also contribute to the success of the individual in this role.

Your Future in the Role

As the justice system continues to improve and reform, we welcome forward thinking, creative, and compassionate people who thrive on working with the next generation. This position has opportunities for professional development, leadership, and training, as well as career advancement within Pierce County Juvenile Court.

Core Daily Responsibilities

• You will be responsible for the wellbeing of residents on a 24-hour, 7 days a week basis. This position provides important work in protective supervision, screening, booking, and care for young people during their time at Pierce County Juvenile Court.
• You will oversee the welfare, safety, and security of the residents.
• You will deescalate conflicts and thoughtfully manage behavior of residents.
• You will identify potentially destructive behavior and intervene appropriately.
• You will provide thoughtful supervision, coaching and mentoring while nurturing young people who overcome adversity, work through their feelings, and transition back into the community so they can thrive.
• You will be trained in skill building and behavioral management techniques which you will be expected to utilize in individual or group interactions with young people. This includes using established guidelines to assess mental or medical issues of youth prior to acceptance into the facility.
• You may exercise supervision of an on-call or volunteer workers assigned to the work shift.
• You will work shifts, with varying days off, and are expected to be able to perform the functions and duties of all shifts in all areas of the facility. Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Shift Supervisor and the general supervision of the Manager of Detention Services.

Strategic Responsibilities and Values

You should be adaptable, forward-thinking, trauma informed, and compassionate, while maintaining the safety, security, and wellbeing of young people in the care and custody of Pierce County Juvenile Detention. You should support the vision of a safe, connected community where all young people and families are supported and empowered to build on their strengths, so that they can reach their full potential.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Requirements

• Completion of two years of post‑high school education in the social sciences, corrections, or related field; or two years of experience (paid or volunteer) in the guidance, discipline, and supervision of young people involved with the court. Additional education or experience may substitute equally for the position requirements.
• and one year of experience as a Detention Specialist I or comparable position.
• Must satisfactorily complete the Training Academy at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission within 12 months of hire.

Special Requirements

• A valid Washington State driver's license is required.
• Physical strength and agility necessary to subdue and restrain a young person in the event they are an imminent harm to themselves or others. Satisfactory physical condition, as evidenced by a…