Juvenile Probation Offers $3,000 Sign-On Incentive for Detention Officers
by Clara Colmenero
To view an informational video about the program: www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9WaBISN_7Y
PHOENIX (May 4, 2022) – The Juvenile Probation Department, part of the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County, is recruiting juvenile detention officers who can help youth make positive changes in the lives of youth while holding them accountable for their behavior.
“Our mission here is simple: promoting and improving public safety through positive change. While our mission may be simple, our work is not,” said Chief of Juvenile Probation Eric Meaux. “We achieve positive change by genuinely connecting with the youth we serve, building rapport and trust, and continuously reinforcing positive behaviors.”
The Juvenile Probation Department is offering a $3,000 sign-on incentive and competitive pay starting at $20.50 per hour. The $3,000 sign-on incentive is paid in two increments: $1,500 is paid after completing six months as a juvenile detention officer and the rest after completing 18 months. This includes a very comprehensive benefits package including tuition reimbursement for on-going education. Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED and must be at least 21 years of age. A background check, polygraph and pre-employment psychological evaluation will be required for all candidates who are hired to this position.
“I worked with the Department of Corrections for about three years and then I realized there were a lot of very young men, so I thought, let me go somewhere else where I can reach them a lot sooner,” said Juvenile Detention Officer Maria. “That’s how I ended up working in the juvenile court system.”
According to the Juvenile Probation Department, some of the essential job tasks of a juvenile detention officer are supervising, engaging and motivating youth to ensure an orderly and productive living environment. In addition to working living units, officers assist in transitioning youth to various school and recreation activities, including court appearances or virtual appointments or visits.
“We know from years of experience and research that our youth, given their age in development, will make risky and irrational decisions,” said Chief Meaux. “While this does not excuse their actions, we also know that thinking patterns can be changed with the right tools, approach and guidance from caring adults.”
Juvenile Detention Officer Alonzo L. says his work is fulfilling, especially when he can see youth thrive after being released from Detention.
“Sometimes I meet juveniles who were in the system, and I see their life has been turned around and they are doing positive things and have a family or a job and just doing things in life that they always wanted to do,” he said.
Preferred candidates are those who have completed an associate degree or two years of active-duty military experience, public safety experience, or direct experience working with at-risk youth.
Judicial Branch employee benefits include:
- Tuition reimbursement
- Medical, vision and dental
- Wellness incentives
- Short-term disability and life insurance
- State retirement
- Paid parental leave, for those who qualify
Successful applicants will typically be compensated at a rate of $20.50 per hour. Placement at a higher starting salary rate within the range may be considered depending on prior comparable, directly related law enforcement or corrections experience. This position is non-exempt under the FLSA.
To apply, go to: https://superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/jobs.
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The Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County is comprised of Superior Court, Adult Probation and Juvenile Probation, which includes juvenile detention. The Judicial Branch in Maricopa County is the fourth largest trial court system in the nation and, along with its 3,000 employees, is dedicated to providing a safe, fair and impartial forum for resolving disputes, enhancing access to services, and providing innovative, evidence-based practices that improve the safety of the community and ensure the public’s trust and confidence in the Judicial Branch. For more information, visit www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov