Djs Youth Recreation Specialist I

State of Maryland•Allegany, MD

About The Position

Join Us in Making a Difference at DJS! The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) is dedicated to transforming young lives, creating safer communities, and fostering equitable systems. We are seeking passionate individuals for the role of DJS Youth Recreation Specialist I , so join our team and make a meaningful impact on youth and the community at DJS! This position assumes primary responsibility for developing and implementing the Center’s recreation program in accordance with the objectives, policies, and responsibilities of the Department. This position is responsible for the order, care and safety of youth. This position will provide a variety of recreational experiences designed to help participants develop a better awareness of personal care, health, fitness, and general self-esteem. Some key responsibilities of this position may include, but not be limited, to the following: Schedule, initiate, instruct and lead indoor and outdoor sports, games, leisure intramural athletic programs, and seasonal sports activities. Assist Group Living personnel in upholding established rules and develop skills to help youth participate within these rules. Meet with staff from other DJS facilities, teachers, Case Managers, Resident Advisors and Facility Management to plan recreational programs. The Recreation Specialist Candidate's five-day work schedule will include either Sundays or Saturdays.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate acceptable to the Maryland State Board of Education as described in the Maryland Correctional Training Commission regulation.
One year of experience supervising the recreational activities of children or youth in a recreation center, fitness center or school setting.
Employees in this classification must complete and successfully pass the Entrance Level Correctional Training Course for DJS support staff required for the Maryland Correctional Training Commission certificate during the probationary period.
Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator’s license valid in the State of Maryland.
Employees in this classification that are employed at DJS Youth Centers may be required to complete a Board approved medication technician training program and possess a valid Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) certification as a Medication Technician.
U.S. Citizenship or Resident Alien status
Must be at least 21 years of age
A thorough background check, including fingerprinting and drug testing
An oral interview, and Physical and psychological examinations.
Employees in this classification may be subject to call-in and, therefore, may be required to provide the employing agency with a telephone number where the employee can be reached.
Employees in this classification are subject to substance abuse testing in accordance with Code of Maryland Regulation 17.04.09 – Testing for Illegal Use of Drugs.

Nice To Haves

Candidates who have at least six months of experience working with youth within the Department of Juvenile Services (or similar agency).
Candidates who have experience documenting information in a logbook pertaining to the participation level, number of hours participated and type of recreational activity performed by the youth.
Candidates who have experience with de-escalation techniques working with the youth.

Responsibilities

Schedule, initiate, instruct and lead indoor and outdoor sports, games, leisure intramural athletic programs, and seasonal sports activities.
Assist Group Living personnel in upholding established rules and develop skills to help youth participate within these rules.
Meet with staff from other DJS facilities, teachers, Case Managers, Resident Advisors and Facility Management to plan recreational programs.