Deputy Ombudsman for Juvenile Oversight

Introduction

The Maryland Office of Correctional Ombudsman is an independent unit within the Maryland State Government responsible for the oversight of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) and the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) by way of the Juvenile Monitoring Unit (JJMU) which is under the supervision of the OCO. JJMU originated in October 2002 as the Office of the Independent Juvenile Justice Monitor within the Office for Childre n, Youth, and Families (Chapter 255, Acts of 2002). In February 2006, the Office of the Independent Juvenile Justice Monitor was transferred to the Office of Attorney General (OAG) and was renamed the Juvenile Justice Monitoring Unit or JJMU (Chapter 12, Acts of 2006). The JJMU was recently transferred from the OAG to OCO in October 2024. The Unit investigates the needs of children under the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Services and determines whether their needs are being met in compliance with State law. This includes reporting on allegations of abuse, neglect, and on the treatment of and services for youth held in facilities. An essential purpose in this role is to provide public reports and recommendations concerning the needs, conditions, and rights of youth within DJS.

This is a Management Service position, that serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority.

GRADE

23

LOCATION OF POSITION

300 West Preston Street

Baltimore, MD 21201

POSITION DUTIES

Position duties include, but are not limited to:

The Deputy Ombudsman for Juvenile Oversight will assume the responsibility of managing the JJMU staff including the supervision of JJMU staff periodically in DJS facilities.

Responsible for advising the Correctional Ombudsman on all significant issues relating to JJMU; initiates changes and improvements to ensure the most effective delivery.

Responsible for timely reporting on DJS facility conditions in consultation with JJMU monitors and the Correctional Ombudsman.

Responsible for managing the resolution of problems with JJMU monitors and working OCO leadership staff.

Responsible for managing the unit in compliance with OCO policies and procedures to ensure the timely delivery of services on a daily and long-range basis.

Makes timely personnel decisions to form a superior staff and ensure effective communication.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as criminal justice, public administration, therapeutic counseling, social work, or another relevant field.

Experience: At least five years of experience in a related field such as juvenile advocacy, juvenile therapy, corrections, law enforcement, advocacy, or public administration.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or Master's degree in a relevant field such as criminal justice, public administration, therapeutic counseling, social work, or other relevant field. Preferred, but not required.

Experience working with diverse populations, including juvenile or incarcerated individuals, their families, and advocacy groups.

Experience conducting audits, investigations, or oversight activities within a juvenile, correctional or similar setting.

Experience in conflict resolution and mediation.

Familiarity with Maryland's Juvenile or correctional system and relevant stakeholders.

Experience working with governmental bodies and legislative processes.

Individuals with relevant lived experience welcomed to apply.

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Specific educational and experience requirements are set by the agency based on the essential job functions assigned to the position.

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be submitted to: Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, 301 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Paper application materials must be received in our office by the closing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at or, MD TTY Relay Service .

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.

People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.