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Youth Detention Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Youth Detention Worker

Rochester, NY · On-site

$55K - $67K/yr

Youth Detention Worker Deadline: September 11, 2026 5:00pm Salary: $55,307 - $67,367 annually Agency/Dept.: Human Services Description of Duties This is a custodial position responsible for the ...

Youth Development Specialist

Bronx, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

In juvenile justice, ACS oversees detention, placement and programs for youth in the community. The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ...

In juvenile justice, ACS oversees detention, placement and programs for youth in the community. The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ...

In juvenile justice, ACS oversees detention, placement and programs for youth in the community. The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ...

In juvenile justice, ACS oversees detention, placement and programs for youth in the community. The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ...

In juvenile justice, ACS oversees detention, placement and programs for youth in the community. The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ...

In juvenile justice, ACS oversees detention, placement and programs for youth in the community. The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ...

CO · On-site

$4.8K/mo

DYS provides a continuum of services that encompass juvenile detention, assessment, commitment and parole. DYS is the agency statutorily mandated to provide for the care and supervision of youth ...

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Youth Detention information

See salary details

$25.5K

$50.2K

$79.5K

How much do youth detention jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth detention in the United States is $50,155.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $55,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are youth detention centers?

Youth detention centers are secure facilities where minors who have been accused or convicted of committing crimes are held. These centers are designed to provide temporary custody, rehabilitation programs, education, and counseling to young offenders. The goal is to ensure public safety while addressing the underlying issues that contribute to juvenile delinquency. Youth detention is typically used as a last resort, with a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in youth detention centers, and how are they supported in managing these challenges?

Staff in youth detention centers often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral issues, navigating emotionally charged situations, and ensuring the safety and well-being of both youth and colleagues. To support staff, many facilities provide ongoing training in de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care. Teamwork is highly emphasized, with regular communication and support from supervisors, counselors, and mental health professionals to help manage stress and promote a positive environment for both staff and residents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth detention officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Youth Detention Officer, you need a background in criminal justice or social services, knowledge of juvenile law, and often completion of specialized training or certification programs. Familiarity with incident reporting systems, security protocols, and crisis intervention tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, conflict resolution abilities, and emotional resilience help you build trust and maintain order among youth. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, rehabilitation, and well-being of young detainees while maintaining a secure environment.

What is the difference between Youth Detention vs Youth Counselor?

AspectYouth DetentionYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification or training in juvenile justiceHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires a degree in social work, psychology, or related field
Work EnvironmentSecure detention facilities, correctional centers, or juvenile detention centersSchools, community centers, juvenile facilities, or counseling offices
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, juvenile justice systems, correctional institutionsSchools, non-profits, government agencies, juvenile justice programs

While both roles involve working with youth, Youth Detention staff focus on managing youth in secure correctional settings, ensuring safety and compliance. Youth Counselors typically work in less restrictive environments, providing guidance, support, and counseling to help youth rehabilitate and integrate into the community.

More about Youth Detention jobs

What cities are hiring for Youth Detention jobs?

Cities with the most Youth Detention job openings:

What states have the most Youth Detention jobs?

States with the most job openings for Youth Detention jobs include:

Infographic showing various Youth Detention job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 51% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,155 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Youth Detention Worker

Monroe County, NY

Rochester, NY • On-site

$55K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Monroe County (New York) rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

598th of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Location: Rochester, NY
Title: Youth Detention Worker
Deadline: September 11, 2026 5:00pm
Salary: $55,307 - $67,367 annually
Agency/Dept.: Human Services
Description of Duties
This is a custodial position responsible for the constant supervision and observation primarily of adolescent youth residing in the Monroe County Children's Center (a secure detention facility), usually by Family Court Order. Duties involve providing direction, guidance, and instruction in planned and unplanned instructional and recreational activities and daily living routines. Duties also involve performing court ordered transport of Persons in Need of Supervision (PINS) and Juvenile Delinquent youth (JD's). Youth Detention Workers work a variety of shifts and schedules and physically restrain youth when conditions arise. The employee reports directly to and works under the general supervision of Senior Youth Detention Workers and Supervising Youth Detention Workers with wide latitude allowed in the performance of duties. Does related work as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma

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