Chief Juvenile Court Officer (D2 111751)

Chief Juvenile Court Officer

Salary : $84,697.60 - $135,283.20 Annually

Location : State of Iowa

Job Type : Full-time

Job Number : 26-01280

Opening Date : 11 / 14 / 2025

Closing Date : 12 / 5 / 2025

Point of Contact : steve.kremer@iowacourts.gov

To Apply : Please attach a cover letter and resume (PDF format) along with the completed online application. Final candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.

Job Description

The Iowa Judicial Branch Juvenile Court Services, in the Second Judicial District, seeks applicants for a Chief Juvenile Court Officer to oversee Juvenile Court Services (JCS) operations and lead staff across 22 counties in the north-central region of Iowa, to support the communities and align services with the Iowa Judicial Branch's mission, goals, and values. This position will oversee Juvenile Court Services' operations to promote safe and positive outcomes for at-risk youth, victims, and communities. This position will act as a community leader, collaborating with support agencies, law enforcement, and institutions to implement effective youth initiatives, rehabilitative programs, and coordinated responses. This position will enforce research-based best practices and ensure compliance with applicable rules and directives. This position will administer efficient budgets, contracts, funding, and grant management. This position will manage continuous quality improvement and modernization in juvenile court services, operations, performance standards, and professional development. The successful candidate will have strong time and budget management skills. The successful candidate will have effective communication and presentation skills with a variety of court users, including judicial officers, attorneys, clients, agencies, and the general public. The successful candidate will be able to de-escalate sensitive situations, maintain confidential information, and problem-solve. Travel throughout the district will be required.

What's in it for you :

Collaborative, positive professional work environment

Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities

Excellent benefits package

Paid Holidays / Vacation / Sick Leave

Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) plan

Employee discount program

Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program

The pay range for this position is $84,697.60 - $135,283.20 annually. This is an FLSA-exempt position. The starting salary for new state employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Adjustments may be made if the successful candidate has relevant experience.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

Administer juvenile court services in accordance with the law, and with the rules, directives, and procedures of the Iowa Judicial Branch and the judicial district.

Ensure implementation and compliance with standards, priorities, mission, goals, and objectives of the Iowa Judicial Branch.

Manage continuous quality improvement and modernization in juvenile court services, operations, performance standards, professional development, and workforce management.

Analyze data and reports of juvenile court services operations for effective problem-solving and solution recommendations.

Lead community engagement efforts and initiatives. Manage positive internal and external collaboration and public relations.

Promote a positive culture that reinforces the Iowa Judicial Branch's mission and values.

Manage juvenile court services, resources and staffing. Manage, assess, and analyze budgets and forecasts. Implement and enforce efficient and effective practices.

Lead and supervise Juvenile Court Officers, supervisors, and staff.

Responsible for assessing the service needs within the district and overseeing the Request for Proposals (RFP) and contracting processes to ensure effective and timely delivery of services.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Extensive knowledge of the Iowa Juvenile Court legal system and the Iowa Code as it pertains to juvenile delinquency.

Extensive knowledge of the organization, functions, responsibilities, and procedures of juvenile court services.

Knowledge of contract law, budgeting, the Iowa Administrative Code, and other procedural guidelines governing the administration of funds.

Knowledge of community-based and statewide resources.

Presentation and communication skills.

Leadership and interpersonal skills.

Problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

Ability to maintain and secure confidential information.

Reliable transportation and the ability to travel.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position.

Bachelor's degree in law, criminal justice, criminology, psychology, sociology, education, or related social sciences.

Eight (8) years of related experience in a juvenile justice or criminal justice field.

Three (3) years of professional supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience managing budgets, grants and contracts.

Experience in a leadership role.

Experience in interagency partnerships / collaborations.

Experience in operational analytics.

Experience developing programs.

Advanced degree in criminal justice, public administration, social work, psychology, sociology, or a closely related field.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.