What Is a Juvenile Detention Officer's Job?

Juvenile detention officers work in correctional facilities, supervising youths who have committed criminal behavior and are too young to be incarcerated in adult institutions. They provide positive role models for the residents while ensuring safety and security. The juvenile detention officer is a vital part of the chance for troubled youngsters to be rehabilitated and change their behavior for the better.

Identification

Juvenile detention officers perform continuous monitoring of youths in correctional facilities and assist in maintaining discipline. Observation may include room checks and personal searches. The officers write records of daily behavior, incident and disciplinary reports and keep medication logs. They document any violations of procedures and rules. An important aspect of their work is to demonstrate leadership and be a good motivational influence, treating all the residents with respect.

Types

Juvenile correctional facilities provide education and job training as well as community-enhancing skills. Some are maximum-security institutions for individuals who have committed violent acts such as armed robbery, rape or murder. Others are minimum-security allowing temporary leaves, community projects and employment. The juveniles may work to pay restitution while undergoing counseling to change their delinquent behavior.

Function

On any given day, a juvenile detention officer may process new admissions, including supervising and searching. The officers inspect visitors to the facility and any packages delivered. They also inspect vehicles, rooms, recreational areas and the outside property, looking for potential health hazards, drugs, and safety and security violations. Housekeeping duties are part of the work as well, including general cleaning and laundry duties as well as maintaining sanitary conditions. They teach residents about housekeeping responsibilities and personal hygiene and issue clothing, linens, personal supplies and medication. When residents are scheduled for court appearances or appointments at social services or medical facilities, the juvenile detention officer transports them. The officers coordinate daily educational and recreational activities for when the juveniles are not in class. When appropriate, they search residents for injuries, contraband or weapons. If a situation is escalating toward violent behavior, they must restrain the youths involved.

Considerations

A high school diploma or completion of the General Educational Development tests is required, and then a training program at the facility, anywhere from three to 10 weeks depending on the program. Some institutions prefer related work experience or an associate's degree in criminal justice. First aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification is usually mandated. Juvenile detention officers need good verbal and written communication and basic math skills. They must be able to get along with disadvantaged youth and criminal offenders, showing respect while still being in complete control. The officer must have good judgment and quick response during situations that have potential to turn violent.

Benefits

Average starting salary is about $29,000 a year and increases with experience. Total average pay is about $35,000 and there is not much room for improvement after that as salaries top out at about $38,000 unless the officer obtains a bachelor's degree. With a four-year degree in criminal justice and several years of experience, a juvenile detention officer can find opportunities in the $50,000 range.

Resources

• Meet the teens in lockup