JTDC - Rapid Response Team Specialist

• The Rapid Response Team Specialist is a “First Responder” for disturbances, escapes, fires, evacuations, natural disasters, and/or de-escalation of non-emergency responses as part of a team specifically trained to respond to emergency situations. Individuals of this team will also rotate as a staff member of the RESET Center. Responsible for the safety of employees, visitors, and residents in a 24-hour youth detention facility.   

• Monitors designated areas of the facility and responds to any and all disturbances.
• Responds to all types of emergencies (i.e., disturbances, fire evacuations, escapes, natural disasters, etc.).
• De-escalates crisis situations as they arise.
• Employs only those physical management techniques, which are consistent with approved training provided by the JTDC.
• Complies with all policies/procedures in order to promote a safe, secure, and humane environment for residents and staff.
• Provides support and assistance to staff and residents in the administration of the resident behavior programs.
• Maintains a safe and secure environment for both the residents and staff by performing such duties as searches of residents, resident’s personal effects, staff, and visitors in accordance with JTDC policies, and procedures.
• Utilizes the least restrictive physical management techniques in accordance with JTDC policies and procedures, which correspond to the level of threat and the intensity of the disruptive resident.  The use of force will be justifiable and reasonable and only used when necessary to maintain positive control of the situation.
• Applies approved use of restraint devices only when a resident is physically uncontrollable and constitutes a serious and imminent danger to self or others, to prevent escape, or prevent damage to property that puts in jeopardy the safe operation of the facility.
• Completes accurate reports and submits them by the end of the shift following the use of physical force and/or mechanical restraints.
• Provides the necessary security to maximize the safety and security of resident and staff, in addition to the prevention of escapes.
• Operates security and communication equipment including, but not limited to portable radios, metal detectors, and mechanical restraints.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, local, and JTDC policy and procedure and lawful court orders.
• Demonstrates coherent and effective written communication through reports and memorandums, with both internal and external contacts. 
• Performs other job duties as assigned.

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferably with major course work in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, or related social services.
• Two (2) or more years’ experience in law enforcement, military, and/or a secured/correctional facility.
• Internal candidates must have a minimum of Five (5) years’ experience as a JTDC Juvenile Detention Specialist, or Recreational Worker with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• United States citizenship.
• 21 years of age at the time of application submission.

• Previous experience in criminal or juvenile justice, law enforcement, or related social science field.  Preference to those with previous experience working with delinquent or emotionally troubled youths and/or families, which may have been in an intern or volunteer capacity.
• Must have a positive record of job performance without discipline within the past twelve (12) months.
• Ability to recognize abnormal behaviors and adverse health conditions in juveniles and follow proper medical reporting procedures.
• Ability to effectively listen, understands, and communicates in English (verbally and in writing) at the appropriate level with juveniles.
• Must possess knowledge of group dynamics and the ability to establish trust and cooperation with juveniles while maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism, assertiveness, and leadership.
• Highly accountable, reliable, and prompt, with a strong work ethic.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Bilingual communication skills preferred.

• Ability to push and pull objects, pick up objects, and bend repeatedly in order to move desks, beds, and other furniture to conduct security checks and search residents.
• Ability to step up on elevated surfaces, such as beds or stools, to conduct room searches.
• Ability to reach, bend, and stoop to perform security checks, and other tasks.
• Ability to walk extended periods throughout the facility.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to physically restrain residents under adverse conditions, including the ability to manage weights of 75lbs. to 200 lbs. when restraining adolescents.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations according to JTDC policies, procedures and protocols.
• Ability to correctly handcuff and safely remove handcuffs from residents as needed.
• Ability to effectively communicate (hear and respond) 10 codes through the intercom/radio transmission monitoring system.
• Ability to lift and carry containers of items weighing up to 45lbs.
• Must be able to work overtime based on departmental needs.
• Must demonstrate competency in implementing physical force techniques and satisfactorily complete all of the requirements in training of physical force, including passing the annual physical fitness test.

• Exposure to resident behavior problems that may include physical acting out and require safe physical management skills.
• Exposure to residents with complex mental health issues and/or disorders.
• Exposure to residents with various states of cleanliness and hygiene.
• Exposure to various health related conditions or residents of a communicable nature which requires precaution and adhering to medical instruction.
• Exposure to communicable diseases of youth.

• Illinois residency obtained within 90 days of date of hire.
• Pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check including but not limited to LEADS, CANTS, and professional references.
• A result of negative from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Child Abuse Registry.
• Must pass required and nationally recognized written examination(s) for direct care positions.

• Meet additional minimum requirements for eligibility established by the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (AOIC).
• Open availability to work any shift at a 24-hour facility (includes evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays) and the ability to work overtime as directed.
• Must pass Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) screening requirements. 

• Information concerning the benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page. 

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