JUVENILE JUSTICE YOUTH & FAMILY SPECIALIST OPTION I (UMP)

Job Requisition ID: 51083

Opening Date: 10/30/2025
Closing Date: 11/13/2025
​Agency: Department of Juvenile Justice
Class Title: JUVENILE JUS YOUTH & FAM SPEC I - 21991 
Skill Option: UMP Credential 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated starting salary is $6,187/month (Step 1b); CBA applies; Full Range: $5,928-$8,876
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Cook
Number of Vacancies: 2
Bargaining Unit Code: RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 

 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

 

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview:

The Department of Juvenile Justice is seeking a compassionate and motivated candidate to assist in the positive rehabilitation of the youth in our care. The ideal candidate for this position will possess a passion for positive change, the ability to apply a high degree of patience with residents and their families, and the ability to confidently develop and implement recommendations for positive behavior change and rehabilitation. The incumbent in this role will possess excellent communication skills both orally and in writing as they will have daily interaction with various youth, other staff both inside and outside the facilities, families of the residents, and members of the community. The Juvenile Justice Youth and Family Specialist plays a critical role in the maintenance and rehabilitation of the youth in our care. If this sounds like an opportunity that fits the career path you’re looking for, then IDJJ is looking for you! We encourage all interested and qualified candidates to apply!

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a bachelor's degree in counseling or a closely related social science degree and two (2) years of professional experience working with youth in juvenile services.
  
  OR
  
  Requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and three (3) years of professional experience in counseling or casework.

 

This title is included as an Upward Mobility Program credential title. Qualifying state employees in the employee Upward Mobility Program may complete combinations of specific proficiency tests and training programs leading to a certificate of proficiency in lieu of the stated requirements for this classification.

Essential Functions:

• Coordinates and manages after care caseload.
• Communicates with institutional staff regarding youth needs and progress.
• Reviews documentation to determine family and youth eligibility for Federal funding participation and interacts with other agencies to verify documentation and eligibility enrollment are established and implemented.
• Conducts home visitations to establish, document, and report status of family dynamics and the suitability of the home for re-entry and/or continued placements.
• Monitors service providers to ensure compliance with agency requirements.