LA County ramps up recruitment for juvenile hall jobs

Facing staffing issues and pressure from the state to improve conditions at juvenile detention facilities, the Los Angeles County Probation Department is attempting to hire more officers

Two positions are currently in need of job applicants: detention services officers and group supervisor, nights.

Detention Services Officers are essential to the Probation Department’s 24-hour, seven-day-a-week facilities, officials said. They directly supervise youth detainees and help maintain a safe environment during a variety of scheduled activities and group movements

Prospective detention services officers must have completed 60 semester units or 90 quarter units from an accredited college that includes coursework in social or behavioral sciences. The annual salary is $64,789-$78,330.

The nighttime group supervisor “oversees living units during sleeping hours in facilities dedicated to youth custody, care, treatment, and rehabilitation,” according to the county. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and “must demonstrate the ability to provide adequate supervision and support to youth during overnight hours.” The pay range is $48,318-$61,675 annually.

“We are seeking individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of youth and contributing to the safety and well-being of our community,” Chief Probation Officer Guillermo Viera said in a statement. “These positions offer rewarding opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as the chance to work in a supportive team environment.”

Primarily because of staffing deficiencies, in February state regulators declared LA County’s juvenile halls “unsuitable” and gave the Probation Department until April 16 to prevent the closure of the two facilities in Sylmar and Downey.

More information and job applications are available at joinlacountyprobation.com.

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