Detention Operations Supervisor

The Juvenile Detention Operations Supervisor leads the daily operations of the detention facility by supervising Juvenile Detention Shift Supervisors and assigned personnel, coordinating resident programming and behavioral management, ensuring compliance with detention standards and applicable laws, and promoting consistent, high-quality detention practices across all shifts. This position serves as a key operational leader and may act on behalf of the Juvenile Detention Manager during assigned absences.

The Whatcom County Juvenile Detention Center provides secure detention services for youth while emphasizing safety, accountability, rehabilitation, and positive youth development. The Operations Supervisor works closely with Shift Supervisors, Juvenile Court Administration, judicial officers, probation staff, law enforcement agencies, schools, behavioral health providers, treatment organizations, volunteers, contractors, families, and community partners to ensure coordinated, effective services that support successful juvenile justice outcomes.

Essential job duties include:

• Direct daily detention operations.
• Coordinate staffing and resident supervision.
• Oversee admissions, releases, classification, transportation, behavioral management, and facility-wide programming.
• Respond to emergencies and critical incidents.
• Conduct administrative investigations.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws; detention standards; PREA requirements; court orders; and County policies.
• Analyze operational performance and implement process improvements.
• Oversee facility safety and operational readiness.
• Foster employee development, accountability, and a culture of continuous improvement throughout detention operations.

If you are passionate about public service, employee development, and improving outcomes for justice-involved youth while leading a dedicated team of professionals, we'd love to hear from you!

Supervisor: Detention Manager

For more information, please review the job description. 

Salary Range: 

• Unrepresented- Range 9

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, Public Administration, Behavioral Sciences, or a closely related field.
• Four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in juvenile detention, juvenile corrections, residential treatment, or a residential program and at least two (2) years of supervisory experience.

Special Requirements:

• Possess a valid driver's license at time of hire and throughout employment.
• Obtain a First Aid/CPR card within six (6) months of employment and maintain throughout employment.
• Background check must meet County criteria for security sensitive position.
• Must pass job-related tests.

Distinguish yourself in public service and make a commitment to our future. 

 Whatcom County, WA is truly special and a great place to call home!