Illinois Juvenile Justice Hiring Push, Starting Pay Over $65K

The search to fill positions at Illinois juvenile justice facilities is expanding with a starting salary of over $65,000.

State Expands Hiring to Address Youth Center Staffing Needs

The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) is launching a statewide hiring effort aimed at bolstering staffing levels at its youth centers, announcing a series of required employment screening events for Juvenile Justice Specialist Intern positions.

The move comes as Illinois continues to focus on safety, rehabilitation, and stability within its juvenile justice system.

Full-Time Positions Open Across Illinois

The Juvenile Justice Specialist Intern roles are full-time, year-round, shift-work positions with a starting salary of $65,004.

Openings are available at Illinois youth centers in Chicago, Warrenville, St. Charles, Grafton, Harrisburg, and Lincoln.

Applicants who are interested in Chicago or Warrenville placements must attend screenings held at the Phoenix Emerging Adults Career and Education (PEACE) Center in St. Charles.

Screening Dates, Locations, and Requirements

Screenings begin at 8 am and last four to six hours. Events are scheduled from late January through March 2026 at the facilities in St. Charles, Lincoln, Grafton, and Harrisburg.

Attendance at a screening is mandatory, and applicants must complete an online application at least five days in advance.

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Required documents include a driver's license, birth certificate, and additional records such as transcripts or selective service numbers, if applicable.

Qualifications and Next Steps

Candidates for openings at IDJJ must be at least 21, eligible to work in the U.S., and hold a valid driver's license. Those without a bachelor's degree must have relevant youth care experience.

Additional details about the openings with the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice are available by clicking HERE. You can also contact IDJJ's Jim Crowley.