Juvenile Services Specialist

Job description

Looking for meaningful work where you can make a real impact? Chesapeake Juvenile Services is actively seeking a dedicated, motivated professional to join our team as a Juvenile Services Specialist.

In this role, you'll mentor, guide, and support youth as they navigate challenges and work toward positive change. If you're passionate about helping others and thrive in a structured, team-oriented environment, this opportunity is for you.

What You'll Do:

Supervise and engage youth residents using effective behavioral management strategies

Provide individual and group counseling to support growth and accountability

Maintain a safe, structured environment while responding confidently in crisis situations

Document daily activities, incidents, and case updates with accuracy

Transport residents to court, appointments, and approved activities

Plan and lead recreational and developmental programs

Conduct room checks, searches, and nightly supervision routines

Collaborate with staff, including assisting medical personnel when needed

Play a critical role in maintaining safety-including physical intervention when required

What You Bring: Knowledge of counseling techniques, especially with at-risk or justice-involved youth

Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust while maintaining boundaries

Sound judgment and composure in high-pressure situations

A team-first mindset and commitment to youth development

Experience in juvenile justice, trauma-informed care, or residential settings is a plus

Ready to step into a role that matters? Apply today and start building a career with purpose in Chesapeake Juvenile Services.

The City of Chesapeake offers an exceptional range of benefits. Please browse our Benefits Brochure, for a full list of benefits and employee perks.

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Required Qualifications

Vocational/Educational Requirement: Requires high school diploma and formal training or special courses equivalent to satisfactory completion of one year of college education in criminal justice, law enforcement or a closely related field.

Experience: In addition to satisfying the vocational/educational standard, this class requires a minimum of six months of related, full-time equivalent experience. Preferred experience participating in group counseling sessions in a group home, detention center, or non-secure residential setting.

Special Certifications and Licenses: Depending on position, may require a valid driver's license and a driving record that is in compliance with City Driving Standards . Requires Handle With Care, CPR , and First Aid certifications within 45 days of hire.

Special Requirements: Employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-term department needs and/or City-wide emergencies. Emergency operations support work and work locations may be outside of normal job duties.

Preferred Qualifications General knowledge of the techniques and means of interviewing;

Some knowledge of the fundamental principles of adolescent psychology;

Thorough knowledge of the laws and procedures related to juvenile detainees;

Ability to counsel and conduct interviews of a personal, sensitive nature;

Ability to communicate complex social ideas effectively, orally and in writing; and possess excellent computer skills.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city agency officials, court personnel, co-workers, residents, and residents' parents or guardians.

Worksite address

chesapeake, VA, 23322, US

Who can apply

Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.