Juvenile Court Officer 1 (D5 Polk 111975)

About the role

The Iowa Judicial Branch in Polk County seeks applicants for Juvenile Court Officer 1 to learn to provide Juvenile Court Services on a broad range of matters related to youth casework in Iowa Judicial Branch courts. After completing the required training and guidance, this position will transition to a Juvenile Court Officer role with independent work, decision-making, and accountability.

This position will execute Juvenile Court Services casework, including taking youth into custody, supervising youth on informal and formal probation, conducting investigations, determining and supervising out-of-home placement, and other casework tasks. This position will work closely with law enforcement, schools, courts, communities, and other agencies to support programs to reduce delinquent behaviors. This position will use evidence-based practices in casework, decision-making, and accountability.

This position will occasionally provide court testimony regarding recommendations made and youth program participation. The successful candidate will supervise a juvenile’s compliance with the conditions of supervision. This position will conduct intake and determine youth placement, including detention, shelter care, or home, with appropriate service referrals. This position will occasionally collect random urinalysis, fingerprinting, and DNA collection. This position will have a rotating on-call schedule. This position will frequently travel, usually within the state, but occasionally out of state.

The successful candidate will be able to collaborate with multiple stakeholders. This position will work well with diverse populations, treating all with respect and dignity. The successful candidate will be able to learn and navigate court record-specific computer programs and technology. This position will communicate professionally in person and on the phone. The successful candidate will have keen attention to detail to maintain accurate, integrity-protected records.

What’s in it for you

• Collaborative, positive professional work environment
• Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities
• Excellent benefits package
• Paid Holidays/Vacation/Sick Leave
• Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) plan
• Employee discount program
• Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program.

• The pay range for this position is $26.11 - $41.28 per hour.
• This is a contract-covered, FLSA non-exempt position.
• The starting salary for new state employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range.
• Adjustments may be made if the successful candidate has relevant experience.

Position classification is determined as the ‘best fit’ of the duties assigned to and performed by a position. This position is classified as Juvenile Court Officer 1 as summarized below.

Summary

This position is to learn, train, and complete the necessary requirements to become a Juvenile Court Officer to provide Juvenile Court Services on a broad range of matters pertaining to youth in the Iowa Judicial Branch.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Learn, observe, and ensure Juvenile Court Services are compliant with the law, and with the rules, directives, and procedures of the Iowa Judicial Branch and the judicial district.
• Observe and train to execute juvenile court services casework, including taking youth into custody, supervising youth on informal or formal probation, conducting investigations, determining and supervising out-of-home placement, and other casework standards.
• Participate in the Iowa Judicial Branch Juvenile Court Officer Academy, classes, and on-the-job training.
• Train in safe, efficient, equitable, and evidence-based practices in casework, decision-making, and documentation practices.
• Build collaborative relationships with internal and external agencies and communities for effective solutions and resources.
• Implement efficient budgets and financial practices.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the Iowa Juvenile Court legal system and the Iowa Code as it pertains to juvenile delinquency.
• Knowledge of the organization, functions, responsibilities, and procedures of juvenile court services.
• Knowledge of community-based and statewide resources.
• Interpersonal skills.
• Written and verbal communication skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain and secure confidential information.
• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel.

Additional information

This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Iowa Council 61, AFL-CIO (AFSCME).

This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section.

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position.

• Bachelor’s degree in law, criminal justice, criminology, psychology, sociology, education, or related social science.

Additional Information

This role includes a learning phase, followed by a fully proficient level once the required skills are experience are demonstrated.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with, leading, mentoring, or coaching youth.
• Experience in securing and maintaining confidential information.
• Two or more years working in Criminal Justice, Juvenile Justice, detention centers, residential programs, Youth Shelters, and/or Counseling youth.
• Experience working with youth with substance abuse, mental health, and delinquency concerns.
• Experience working with Law Enforcement and service providers.
• Strong verbal communication and public speaking skills, including presenting information in meetings or court settings.
• Experience working with the practical applications of Iowa Code 232
• Experience working in high conflict/resolution areas.
• Experience conducting interviews, assessments, and investigations.