More than 90 job opportunities currently available​

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 27, 2022) – The Departm​​ent of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is currently hiring Kentuckians to help fill more than 90 full- and part-time positions across 24 facilities located throughout the state's 120 counties.

To help recruit the department is hosting a job fair on June 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EDT at Campbell Regional Juvenile Detention Center located at 590 Columbia Street, Newport, KY. Staff will be on-site to assist interested individuals with the applicant process.

“Kentuckians, there are good jobs available right now with strong benefits, promotional opportunities and quality work throughout our commonwealth," Gov. Andy Beshear said. “Today's youth are our leaders of tomorrow, and they need individuals who have a heart for helping direct their lives on a solid path. Join Team Kentucky and let's work together to make a difference."

DJJ Commissioner Vicki Reed said while the department's vacancy rates are improving, they still need more individuals committed to fostering and investing in the life of each youth so not only do they not return to custody, but they become a more productive citizen, able to enter the workforce and support their own families in the future.

“A career at DJJ is fulfilling, you see first-hand the investment you make in a child's life. These kids are seeking adults to care about them, provide structure, show support and remind them this isn't the end of their futures," said Commissioner Reed. “It is our hope that the upcoming job fair will allow us to talk one-on-one with interested applicants and fill some of these desperately needed positions."

DJJ is responsible for prevention programs for at-risk youth, court intake, pre-trial detention, residential placement and treatment services, probation, community aftercare and reintegration programs, as well as the confinement of youth awaiting adult placement or court. The department strives to promote a comprehensive array of cost-effective services for at-risk youth. These services are directed toward preventing delinquency, providing efficient rehabilitation services and altering the rate of recidivism with appropriate aftercare while minimizing risk to the community.

DJJ is seeking applicants for the following positions: youth workers, nursing, administration, counseling/mental health and food service.

Youth Workers, a direct line of care, who are some of the most needed and influential adults in the lives of youth placed in residential placement. They oversee daily activities, maintain safety and security, and assist youth with school and vocational activities as well as modeling and teaching positive social skills and respect for others. Some of the specific applicant requirements for Youth Workers are:

• Have a high school diploma or GED;
• Be able to physically respond to an emergency situation;
• Not have been engaged in any sexual related offense, domestic violence, human or drug trafficking or drug related charge in the last 8 years; 
• Not have been convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence or trafficking in narcotics, drugs or controlled substances; and
• Have and maintained a valid driver's license.

All individuals that are hired to be Youth Workers will attend a 4- week basic training academy. 

For more about a career with DJJ, visit the Kentucky Personnel's Cabinet website.

As of June 22, 481 youth were in the custody of the state and receiving services from DJJ at one of the department's 24 facilities. Learn more about DJJ and its services.