THE OPPORTUNITY
Recruitment is underway for an exceptional opportunity with the Department of Juvenile Services for Washington County, Oregon. The Director is a key executive management position overseeing a variety of high profile juvenile services programs.
THE COMMUNITY
Washington County and the Portland metropolitan area are nationally recognized as being among the most livable areas in the country. Located on the western edge of Portland, Washington County is the second largest and fastest growing urban county in Oregon, with approximately 537,000 citizens. The community is one of Oregon’s most ethnically diverse. The result of that diversity is that residents and institutions alike reflect a global perspective. Residents enjoy excellent schools and a unique array of cultural and recreational activities. Washington County enjoys the benefits of a healthy urban and rural environment and is only an hour’s drive from the beach and the mountains and a half-hour to downtown Portland.
THE ORGANIZATION
Washington County is one of a few Oregon counties operating under a Home Rule Charter. The County is organized as a Council-Manager form of government with a five-member elected governing board and an appointed County Administrator. The Board Chair is elected at-large and serves on a full-time basis while four Commissioners are elected by District and typically serve part-time. The Board appoints the County Administrator who is responsible for providing staff support to the Board and overseeing daily operations. In addition to the Juvenile Services Department, County offices and departments include: the Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney, Housing Services, Support Services, Health and Human Services, County Counsel, Community Corrections, Land Use & Transportation, County Auditor, Cooperative Library Services and Assessment & Taxation. The Sheriff, District Attorney and Auditor are elected department head positions. County Counsel, like the County Administrator, is appointed by the Board of Commissioners.
THE DEPARTMENT
Washington County is very proud of its Juvenile Services Department and the role that it plays in strengthening the community. Its successful programs and services provide a model that others aspire to, and the County is committed to continuing this strong tradition. To support the mission of increasing responsible behavior among youth, the Department has a budget of approximately $11.8 million and a skilled team of six managers and 73 regular employees.
Departmental values include:
• Respecting other persons
• Considering the needs of youth and families
• Fostering and strengthening parent and family involvement
• Providing prevention and early intervention of offending behavior through county wide collaboration
• Learning and development through education • Building community education, participation and partnerships
• Research and evaluation. These values, in concert with Oregon laws, become the goals and strategies used for driving the success of the Department’s programs, and form the foundation for fulfilling the Department’s mission.
THE POSITION
Reporting directly to the County Administrator, the Department of Juvenile Services Director provides leadership, strategic planning and mentoring to a successful and progressive staff dedicated to the following areas: INTAKE Admissions 24/7, Assessment and Early Intervention Services
TRANSITION Court Unit, Home Detention, Victim’s Assistance, Substance Abuse and Drug Court Program and Community Service
PROBATION Field Case Management, Diversion Team and Sex Offender Unit
RESIDENTIAL Harkins House provides a safe temporary residence for youth as an alternative to secure detention, incorporating the highest quality of individualized care, sound evaluations, and opportunities for learning and development. Harkins House is a Behavioral Rehabilitation Services (BRS) Level 3 program.
SUPPORT Administrative Services
CONCILIATION Provides mediation services and custody evaluations for the Court and counseling. The Director also participates actively in the community on a variety of boards and committees representing Washington County.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will be in an insightful and dynamic administrator with well-rounded experience in the juvenile justice system. The successful candidate will bring an engaging, team-oriented approach to the position, leading by example and inspiring the respect of others, with a commitment to employee development. Particularly knowledgeable in matters related to youth development, family systems and juvenile justice, the ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker and an expert advisor on issues related to evidence-based practices in working with youth and families, case management, community resources and working with criminal justice partners. The Director will welcome input and readily embrace honest and thorough discussion of matters affecting the department and its services. With a constant focus toward “win-win” outcomes, the ideal candidate will be a collaborative, creative problem-solver, decisive and accommodating, able to build consensus and ensure follow through. The ideal candidate will leverage an approachable communication style with a sound understanding of policy and practices within the department, organization and the juvenile justice system. With a confident, organized style, the ideal candidate will be committed to the vision of this robust department: Individual differences and contributions are respected and valued. We acknowledge the good will of others and are committed to working together to create a safe environment where all members are heard and conflict is addressed in a productive manner.
QUALIFYING EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
Washington County is seeking a highly qualified and motivated individual to serve as the next Director of Juvenile Services. A typical way to obtain the desirable qualifications would be through:
• Professional experience with juvenile and family treatment theory and methodology, as well as modern and complex principles and practices of juvenile program development and administration;
• Current or prior management level experience leading the work of staff through training, performance evaluation and counseling; and
• A bachelor’s degree in behavioral, social sciences, public relations, or a related field. COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS The salary range for this opportunity is DOQ.. Salary offer is based upon qualifications and experience.
The Director receives a vehicle allowance of $355/month ($4,260/year). Per Washington County’s Technology Allowance Policy (TAP), the Director also receives three taxable personal computer allowances: (1) computer at $57/pay period ($1,482/year); (2) smart phone at $41/pay period ($1,066/year); and/or (3) tablet at $26/pay period ($676/year).
Washington County currently offers a comprehensive benefits package including the following:
• Employer paid Medical, Dental and EAP coverage for employees and eligible dependents;
• Employer paid Vision coverage for employee;
• Employer paid Live, AD&D and Long Term Disability insurances;
• Ten (10) paid holidays per year;
• Vacation accrual starts at 12 days per year with a beginning vacation balance and accrual rate negotiable;
• Additional 40 hours of administrative leave per fiscal year. May be prorated based on start date;
• Retirement—Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP/PERS); and
• Other voluntary benefits including supplemental Life Insurance and 457b Deferred Compensation Plan.
THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS
The Director of Juvenile Services Department position is “Open Until Filled.” A review of applicant packets will begin March 1, and the position may close at anytime after that. The projected start date is July 9.
To be considered for this opportunity, please apply online to our Employment Opportunities Web page at http://www.co.washington.or.us/index.cfm and attach the following information to the short-form electronic application: • Cover letter; • Comprehensive resume; and • Professional references.
You may address your cover letter to: Attn: Stephanie Reitmajer, Human Resources Manager Washington County Human Resources Division 155 N. First Avenue, MS-11 Hillsboro, OR 97124 For more information, please email HR@co.washington.or.us.
Human Resources will conduct the initial evaluation of submitted materials to determine the best overall match with the established criteria as outlined in this recruitment profile. Candidates who meet the desired criteria will be forwarded to the County Administrative Office for further evaluation. References will not be contacted unless mutual interest has been established. Washington County is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. Women, minorities and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.