*JUVENILE COUNSELOR 3
Pay Range GC20

INTRODUCTION

The classifications within this three-level series perform juvenile casework duties that include intake, investigation, counseling, rehabilitation, guidance and supervision of juveniles who have behavioral and/or emotional problems. All levels may direct volunteers.

This classification is advanced-level within the series and is distinguished from the juvenile counselor 2 by the difficulty of case assignments, greater degree of independence of action, experience and performance of special projects.

EXAMPLES OF PRINCIPAL DUTIES

(Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples.)

1. Perform direct counseling services on an on-going or crisis intervention basis.

2. Conduct intake interviews with juveniles and families; determine whether the case should be referred to another agency, handled unofficially or presented to the court for official action.

3. Inform juveniles and family members of legal rights; prepare legal and other documents; present facts to the court; recommend disposition to the court and carry out court ordered dispositions; provide court with reports as to progress of court wards under supervision and make custody decisions about court wards when necessary and return them to court.

4. Evaluate and investigate facts on each case; conduct interviews with juveniles, family members, schools, attorneys, social service agencies, law enforcement agencies, etc.

5. Confer with all interested parties in outlining treatment program; monitor progress of juveniles placed in treatment programs and on probation; determine restitution payments and monitor payments.

6. Maintain case histories and complete required records, reports and statistical data as required by departmental policy and state law.

7. Transport juveniles to and from detention; provide direct supervision and/or court room security of juveniles in the intake-probation program as necessary.

8. Provide "on-call" services to police or other agencies in responding to the needs of juveniles; conduct courtesy supervision of juveniles for other jurisdictions as requested.

9. Represent department to various service agencies, law enforcement, schools, committees, etc.

10. Perform special projects such as developing and implementing task force on street gangs, lifer's club discussion panel, etc.

11. Assist and provide training for new staff; oversee work assignments.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY REQUIRED BY THIS POSITION

Knowledge of: Thorough knowledge of social work and juvenile corrections theory, practices and procedures to be able to identify the problem, decide an appropriate action, and provide indicated services; thorough knowledge of juvenile behavioral problems and methods of treatment such as substance abuse, anger management, physical/emotional/sexual abuse; thorough knowledge of laws relating to juveniles; thorough knowledge of sound case management principles, practices and procedures. Skill in: Writing clear and concise correspondence, records, legal documents, reports and statistical data; interviewing, counseling and listening techniques and principles; group dynamics; dealing with aggressive or emotionally disturbed juveniles. Ability to: Communicate effectively both in written and oral form; relate to juveniles clients; evaluate and determine the disposition of each case, prepare and present case of adjudication and detention hearings and to determine and monitor restitution payments; oversee work assignments of support staff; work independently; manage time efficiently; remain calm and use good judgment during confrontational or high pressure situations; make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and procedures and use initiative and judgment in completing tasks and responsibilities; utilize problem identification and resolution techniques; establish and maintain records, reports and statistical data; courteously meet, deal effectively and consult with other employees, juveniles and their families, schools, law enforcement officials, courts, physicians, service agencies, community and the public.

Education, experience and training: Bachelor's degree in social services, psychology, corrections or a related field and four years experience in social work or related field OR satisfactory equivalent combination of education, experience and training. At time of appointment, must possess valid Oregon driver's license.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS OF THIS POSITION

Work is performed under the general direction of the juvenile court services manager. The employee receives general instructions regarding the scope and approach to projects or assignments, but procedures and problem resolution are left to employee discretion and interpretation. Employee estimates and manages time efficiently. Work is reviewed periodically to ensure determinations and decisions made are in compliance to department policy and procedures.

GUIDELINES

Work is performed within departmental policies and procedures, state and county statutes, rules, regulations and ordinances; accepted social work principles and practices. Employee uses experience and considerable judgment in applying and choosing between alternative guidelines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Regular and consistent attendance is required.  Work is performed in both field and office environment; may require bending, hearing voice conversations, keyboarding, lifting up to 14 pounds, pushing, reaching and walking. A considerable amount of driving is required.