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Division of Youth Services careers
The Division of Youth Services (DYS) provides treatment, security and care for youth involved with Colorado’s juvenile justice system. DYS serves anyone between 10 and 21 who are in one of the state’s 12 youth centers.
We’re looking for people with a passion for improving the lives of youth. DYS is hiring for youth service specialist positions across the state. As a youth service specialist, you’ll maintain a safe and structured environment, providing direct supervision within a secure center. Applicants must live in Colorado and have a high school diploma or GED.
DYS is also committed to increasing the diversity of its staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. We encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to apply. We’re also looking for professionals who want to grow with us and start a lifelong career with our dedicated team members who make a positive difference in the lives of youth and the surrounding communities. For more information, contact cdhs_careers@state.co.us.
- How do I apply for a job within DYS?
DYS job postings can be found on the State of Colorado Job Opportunities website.
To apply:
- Select a position and hit the green apply button in the top right corner.
- You will be prompted to create an account or enter your existing login information.
- Fill out the required information and submit the application.
To check the status of your application, select your account at the top right of the page and select “Applications” to view the current status of your submission.
- What happens after I apply for a job?
Once submitted, applications are reviewed and assessed by our team. The top candidates will be referred to the hiring manager for an in-person interview. During these interviews, we take time to learn more about you and your interest in this work, and you have the opportunity to learn more about DYS. If you are selected to move forward after the interview, the hiring manager will contact you about the next steps or with a job offer.
Following the job offer, the applicant must pass a background check. If the applicant cannot pass the background check, the job offer will be rescinded.
Regardless of whether you are chosen to move forward, all applicants will be notified of the decision made regarding their application.
- Benefits
DYS offers a full package of benefits for permanent employees of the state of Colorado:
- Provided mandatory training.
- Health and life insurance coverage for employees and optional coverage for dependents. We offer employees several medical insurance choices. We provide life insurance and disability insurance. We also offer employees flexible spending accounts.
- Pension program through the Colorado Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA).
- 401K/457K (Administered through PERA).
- Paid Time Off Benefits to include: holidays, accrued annual leave and sick leave.
- Professional development and career pathing opportunities.
- CO State Employee Assistance Program - A professional assessment, referral, and short-term counseling service offered to State employees with work-related or personal concerns.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program - Under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, a borrower may qualify for forgiveness while employed full-time in a public service occupation and meet certain other criteria.
- Competitive Compensation.
- Employee Wellness Program - Employees can earn up to $20 off their health insurance premiums every month by participating in fun health challenges online.
- DYS Training Academy
DYS provides a mandatory three-week training academy for all new employees. This comprehensive training program provides the skills necessary to ensure a safe, secure and trauma-informed environment for youth and staff within a youth center. The training curriculum includes classroom and simulated training, a CPR certification and ends with a formal graduation ceremony.