Address
Form of work About the Role
As a Detention Youth Worker you will be a member of a diverse multi-disciplinary team, and will be responsible for the management, supervision, security, care, and provision of services for young people in the detention centre environment.
Detention Youth Workers are integral to ensuring the safety and good order of the Centre, young people, staff, and visitors. You will do this by engaging with young people, conducting risk assessments, undertaking searches, monitoring behaviours, and communicating effectively.
Young people accommodated in youth detention centres are often impacted by mental illness, substance abuse, and trauma, which can result in complex behaviours. Youth detention centres can be challenging environments to work in. You will be equipped with the training and support necessary to respond to these challenges, including managing violent and aggressive behaviours.
Paid, on-the-job training is provided during the seven (7) week entry program, with ongoing peer support, supervision, and ongoing training opportunities available during your employment. This training will equip you with skills such as physical intervention, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and security equipment, de-escalation, and support strategies. The seven (7) week Detention Youth Worker entry program will give you the tools and knowledge to ensure the safety, security, and good order of the Centre.
You will receive attractive employment conditions and benefits, with your package including a competitive salary and superannuation, employment security, salary packaging, access to health and wellbeing programs, and provision of meals whilst on rostered shift.
**Position located in Townsville, Queensland**
May 2024 Intake
Youth Justice provides a safe and secure living environment for young people who have been refused bail and are awaiting sentencing or have been sentenced to time in custodial detention. The operations of a youth detention centre are governed by legislative and industrial requirements.
To support a broad range of young people in custody, our workforce needs to be equally diverse.
To succeed in the role, you will need to be energetic, resilient, passionate, and have a strong understanding of the need for situational awareness in a secure custodial environment. Excellent communication skills are vital to this role, as is the ability to advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Additionally, candidates are required to hold and maintain a good level of fitness to be able to undertake the rigorous training program and ongoing fitness requirements of daily tasks which may include response activities.
Formal qualifications are not required to become a Detention Youth Worker as you will be provided all the tools and training required during your on-centre training course. We value people with life experiences who can be positive role models for young people in detention.
Knowledge of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander cultures and experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities is highly regarded.
Job ad reference: QLD/489921/23
Closing date: Ongoing
