Juvenile Rehabilitation Living Unit Manager (WMS1) Aberdeen

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Company: State of Washington

Location: Aberdeen, WA 98520

Description:

Salary: $76,522.00 - $94,140.00 Annually
Location : Grays Harbor County - Aberdeen, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2024-13617
Department: Dept of Children, Youth, and Families
Division: Harbor Heights
Opening Date: 03/25/2025

Description
Our vision is to ensure that "Washington state's children and youth grow up safe and healthy-thriving physically, emotionally and academically, nurtured by family and community."

Job Title: Juvenile Rehabilitation Living Unit Manager (WMS01)
Location: Aberdeen, WA -Harbor Heights
Closes: Open until filled - A review will take place on April 14th, 2025. The hiring manager may choose to close this posting at any time without notice. Salary: $76,522 - $94,140 Annually. The salary listed does not include an additional on-site 24/7 facility 5% premium.
This position has been reposted to obtain a larger candidate pool, if you have previously applied, your application is still under consideration.

Inspire Change as a Juvenile Rehabilitation Living Unit Manager

Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of young adults? We are seeking two passionate, forward-thinking leaders to help launch and shape The Ascend Program at Harbor Heights, our brand-new Juvenile Rehabilitation (JR) location in Aberdeen, Washington. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead one of two therapeutic community units that provide a holistic blend of care, supervision, treatment, education, vocational training, and reentry services for young people. Join us in transforming lives while advancing the DCYF mission, vision, and values of our Agency.

Why This Role Matters

As a Juvenile Rehabilitation Living Unit Manager, you'll play a vital role in building a high-performing team that delivers impactful programming and supervision for residents. This includes leading treatment, transition, and reentry efforts, grounded in Rewire, the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program that serves as the foundation of our therapeutic approach. You'll also oversee enrichment activities, educational opportunities, vocational training, and work-based learning, creating an environment where young adults can rebuild their lives and achieve success.

This isn't just a job-it's a chance to be at the forefront of creating positive change for young adults in our care and shaping the future of the Ascend Program.

What You'll Do
  • Lead with Purpose: Build and inspire a dedicated team and living environment committed to providing compassionate care, treatment, and guidance for JR residents.
  • Shape Lives: Oversee trauma-informed, evidence-based programs that help residents develop critical life skills, heal from trauma, and prepare for successful reintegration into the community.
  • Foster Excellence: Set the tone for professionalism, ethical standards, problem solving, and open communication throughout the program.
  • Drive Success: Supervise and coach staff, coordinate services, and develop innovative approaches to maximize the impact of therapeutic, educational, and vocational programming.
  • Collaborate for Impact: Work closely with leadership, staff, community partners, and stakeholders to ensure the success and growth of young people

Why You'll Love Working Here
  • Make an Impact: Be part of something bigger-changing lives, building hope, and strengthening communities.
  • Leadership Opportunity: Take charge of a groundbreaking program and contribute to its growth and success.
  • Professional Growth: Expand your skills with ongoing training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities.
  • Supportive Culture: Join a dedicated team passionate about making a difference.
  • Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a robust benefits package, including retirement options, health care, and generous leave

If you're driven to lead, innovate, and inspire, we want to hear from you! Apply today and see how you can help build a brighter future for young adults at Harbor Heights.

Who We Are Looking For

The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a proven track record in:
  • Therapeutic communities, corrections, secure mental health facilities, or similar environments (5+ years of experience)
  • Commitment to rehabilitation in structured environments, compassion, and positive youth development
  • Growth mindset, emotional resilience, and empathic communication
  • Understanding and applying cognitive behavioral therapy principles
  • Cultural competence and adaptability
  • Crisis management and de-escalation
  • Innovative problem solving

Required Qualifications:
Equivalent combination of education and professional experience in casework, counseling, probation and parole, social services, planning, directing, and/or facilitation youth group activities totaling eight (8) years
OR
A Master's degree in public administration, Social Sciences or a closely allied field, and three years of professional experience
OR
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education, in Public Administration, Social Sciences or a closely allied field, and four years of professional experience.
OR
Two years as a Juvenile Rehabilitation Supervisor or Juvenile Rehabilitation Coordinator.

The incumbent must possess expertise in providing services to youth and young adults and have an understanding of: adolescent development; at-risk behavior; principles/techniques and trends in juvenile rehabilitation. Incumbent should also possess knowledge of: juvenile risk and protective factors; evidence/researched based intervention programs that reduce recidivism; JR's Integrated Treatment Model including Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Functional Family Parole/Therapy; principles of supervision and treatment of Substance Use Disorder (SUD), youth with a sex-offense and /or mental health issues; principles of casework practices, management, public administration and supervision. Familiarity with: Human Resource specifications; Washington State Juvenile Justice Act; Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington as it pertains to juveniles: DCYF Administrative Policies; JR Policies; case law and the Collective Bargaining Master Agreement.

Degree must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at naces.org

Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S. Incomplete applications may be screened out of the recruitment process.

In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:
  • Preference will be given to supervisory experience with residential programs in juvenile justice.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze challenging situations in a social services environment and prioritize appropriate courses of action applying sound judgment and professional standards.
  • Demonstrated understanding of adolescent development and juvenile rehabilitation practices and principles; experience providing cognitive/behavioral therapeutic interventions.
  • Expertise in providing services to youth and young adults and have an understanding of: adolescent development; at-risk behavior; principles/techniques and trends in juvenile rehabilitation.
  • Knowledge of: juvenile risk and protective factors; evidence/researched based intervention programs that reduce recidivism; JR's Integrated Treatment Model including Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Functional Family Parole/Therapy; principles of supervision and treatment of Substance Use Disorder (SUD), youth with a sex-offense and/or mental health issues; principles of casework practices, management, public administration and supervision. Familiarity with: Human Resource specifications; Washington State Juvenile Justice Act; Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington as it pertains to juveniles: DCYF Administrative Policies; JR Policies; case law and the Collective Bargaining Master Agreement.
  • Demonstrated understanding of racial equity and a commitment to participate in DCYF efforts to advance racial equity in our policies, processes and practices.
  • Understand Institutional and systemic barriers for children and families of color. Committed to removing barriers and closing gaps for children and families furthest from opportunity.
  • Experience working effectively with a team of individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, and social backgrounds.
  • Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences related to juvenile delinquency, and the ability to use verbal de-escalation and self-defense techniques approved for intervention with verbally and/or physically aggressive youth or young adults.

How do I apply?
Complete your applicant profile and attach the following documents:
  • Letter of interest describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position.
  • Current resume detailing experience and education.

Supplemental Information:
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington's children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.

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 in the job.

This position requires a valid unrestricted (other than corrective lenses) driver's license.

If you have any questions pertaining to this recruitment or if you would like to request an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, contact David Ozment (Talent Acquisition Specialist) at If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855)524-5627 or email

Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2276 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (800) 833-6388.

10327
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022
01

Which of the following best describes how you meet the qualifications for this position?
  • Equivalent combination of education and professional experience in casework, counseling, probation and parole, social services, planning, directing, and/or facilitation youth group activities totaling eight (8) years.
  • Two years as a Juvenile Rehabilitation Supervisor or Juvenile Rehabilitation Coordinator.
  • Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Social Sciences or a closely allied field, and four years of professional experience.
  • Master's degree in public administration, Social Sciences or a closely allied field, and three years of professional experience.
  • None of the above.

02

Which of the following best describes your years of experience working in a professional position in Juvenile Rehabilitation.
  • I have none of this experience.
  • I have one (1) year or less of this experience.
  • I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
  • I have two (2) to three (3) years of this experience.
  • I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
  • I have five (5) to six (6) years or more of this experience.
  • I have six (6) to seven (7) years of this experience.
  • I have seven (7) to eight (8) years of this experience.
  • I have eight (8) years or more of this experience.

03

Which of the following best describes your years of experience working with Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington as it pertains to juveniles?
  • I have none of this experience.
  • I have one (1) year or less of this experience.
  • I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
  • I have two (2) to three (3) years of this experience.
  • I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
  • I have five (5) years or more of this experience.

04

Which one of the following best describes your highest level of experience with: adolescent development; at-risk behavior; principles/techniques and trends in juvenile rehabilitation?
  • Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
  • Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer sponsored training or higher education program, OR through at least 6 months of experience applying the competency in the workplace).
  • Skilled (Successfully and regularly applied the competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding the competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 to 3 years of experience).
  • Expert (Application of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience).
  • None of the above

05

Which one of the following best describes your highest level of experience with juvenile risk and protective factors; evidence/researched based intervention programs that reduce recidivism?
  • Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
  • Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer sponsored training or higher education program, OR through at least 6 months of experience applying the competency in the workplace).
  • Skilled (Successfully and regularly applied the competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding the competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 to 3 years of experience).
  • Expert (Application of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience).
  • None of the above

06

Do you have professional training in the use of verbal de-escalation and self-defense techniques approved for intervention with verbally and or physically aggressive youth or young adults?
  • Yes
  • No

07

Do you have a valid unrestricted (other than corrective lenses) driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

08

Applicants selected for an interview are 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 in the job. Are you willing to undergo a background check as a condition of employment?
  • Yes
  • No

09

DCYF - How did you hear about this job opportunity?
  • WWW.Careers.Wa.Gov
  • WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
  • Washington State Employee Referral
  • DCYF Employee Referral
  • DCYF Jobs Page
  • Monster
  • College/university career fair or website
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • VERG
  • Advertisement
  • CareerBuilder
  • Diversity Jobs
  • Handshake
  • Other

Required Question

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