Description

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) was created to be a comprehensive agency exclusively dedicated to the social, emotional, and physical well-being of children, youth, and families regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or other socioeconomic factors. We believe our workforce should reflect the communities we serve, and are actively searching for candidates that reflect that diversity.

Are you interested in being a core member of a dynamic and diverse team of program professionals that supports programs, personnel and community partnerships statewide in the service of young people with complex needs involved with the deep end of the juvenile justice system? Are you excited by the prospect of playing a key role developing and strengthening sexuality education, treatment and advocacy programs and resources for young people who are navigating complex challenges and programs aimed at supporting resilience and success?

The Opportunity:
Our DCYF Juvenile Rehabilitation HQ Clinical team is searching for an experienced, professional Program Specialist 5 with expertise in programs that support healthy sexual identity, beliefs, and behavior. The ideal candidate for this job has experience in health education, and a demonstrated understanding of the complex dynamics related to involvement with the juvenile justice system, including young people who have sexually offended. This job leads agency efforts with continuous quality improvement of sexual behavior treatment programs for youth who have committed sexual offenses, development of evidence-informed sexuality education programs, and strengthening of support mechanisms for young people who have been victimized by sexual exploitation. This job also contributes to continued development of supportive resources and staff education related to sexuality and gender identity.

Some of what you will do:

• Research sexuality education curricula and approaches, and partner with agency leaders to develop delivery mechanisms for these materials in JR facilities.
• Partner with JR staff and community providers and research current literature and best practices with sexual behavior treatment, and provide training and consultation to staff for continuous quality improvement.
• Collaborate with community advocates and DCYF leads in child welfare and early learning to develop more resources that support individuals impacted by the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Minors (CSEC).
• Serve as Subject Matter Expert in partnership with JR training team to support staff education and development.

What we are looking for:
A Bachelor’s degree in social services or education field, and four years of experience in juvenile justice, child welfare, or behavioral health that included sexuality education and/or treatment.
OR
Equivalent combination of education and experience totaling eight years.

In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:

• Master’s degree in social services or education field, and two years of experience in juvenile justice, child welfare, or behavioral health that included sexuality education and/or treatment.
• Experience with project organization and management.
• Experience with providing education and treatment to at-risk or justice-involved young people from diverse backgrounds and cultural groups.
• Ability to articulate principles of youth education and behavioral motivation.
• Ability to describe principles of healthy adolescent development, the impact of adverse childhood events on the developmental trajectory, and approaches for supporting healthy development.
• Experience with analyzing and interpreting research and data as it relates to needs, program effectiveness, and outcomes.
• Skills in computer software, Microsoft Word, Excel.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced work environment.
• Skills in demonstrated sensitivity and cultural diversity.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently.

How do I apply?
Complete the online application and attach the following documents to your profile:

• Letter of interest describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position.
• Current resume detailing experience and education.

Supplemental Information:
Per Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 21-14 (Download PDF reader)(Download PDF reader), state employees must be fully vaccinated. Being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 is a condition of employment. Being fully vaccinated means that an individual is at least two weeks past their final dose of an authorized COVID-19 vaccine regimen. If you are a selected candidate, you will be required to provide proof of vaccination in order to become/remain a DCYF employee. You may request an accommodation if you are unable to meet the requirement due to a medical or religious necessity.

Applicants selected for an interview will be required to pass a national fingerprint background check and complete a questionnaire mandated by the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) inquiring about any sexual misconduct. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform the job.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

This announcement may be used for multiple positions.

DCYF is an equal opportunity employer and supports equity, diversity, inclusion, and respect.

The initial screening will be based on the content and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified and documentation may be required. Applications with comments such as "see attachments" or "N/A" in the supplemental question responses will be considered incomplete.

Need accommodation throughout the application/interview process? Unable to apply online? Contact the Recruitment team at dcyf.jobs@dcyf.wa.gov or (360) 280-3173 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf at 800-833-6388

Experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application? Call NEOGOV toll-free at (855)524-5627 or email support@neogov.com.

To take advantage of Veteran's preference please attach your DD-214, member 4 long-form, or your NGB-22. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching.

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