Job Description

Posting number: 27-00413

Department: 444 Judicial

Job classification: GENERIC CLASS SPEC

Posting type: Open

Categories: Corrections, Legal, Office and Administrative Support

The Iowa Judicial Branch, in Dubuque County, seeks applicants for Juvenile Court Officer 1 to learn to provide Juvenile Court Services on a broad range of matters pertaining to youth casework in the Iowa Judicial Branch courts. After completing the required training and guidance, this position will be changed to a Juvenile Court Officer 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 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 have the ability to professionally communicate in person and on the phone. The successful candidate will have keen attention to detail to maintain the accuracy and integrity of 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.

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.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations. Please go to www.iowacourts.gov and click on the Careers page.

Candidates need to complete the NEOGOV application and attach a cover letter and resume. Final applicants are subjected to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.

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.

Qualifications

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.

Supplemental information

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with, leading, or coaching youth.
• Experience maintaining confidential information.
• Knowledge of adolescent development and trauma-informed practices.
• Experience working with families experiencing behavioral health, educational, or social challenges.
• Knowledge of juvenile justice, child warfare, education, or behavioral health systems.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including building rapport with youth and families.
• Training or experience in conflict resolution, de-escalation, or restorative practices.