The Position

Loudoun County, Virginia, is seeking its first Director of Youth Services to lead a newly structured County department focused on advancing and coordinating programs and services that support positive youth development and successful transition to adulthood. This is a pivotal leadership opportunity to help build, grow, and oversee a department with services ranging from secure youth detention and electronic monitoring to voluntary shelter care, life skills programs, and broader youth development initiatives.

This role will involve strategic planning, budget and personnel management, and the development of interagency and community partnerships. The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader with strong skills in communication, labor relations, and business operations, as well as a deep understanding of the juvenile justice system, diversion and prevention programs, and the challenges and opportunities facing young people today.

The need for this position is driven by a structural realignment that, in October 2024, separated certain state and County services supporting Loudoun’s youth involved with the court system. As a result, the County is offering some youth services in new ways and, as necessary, making referrals to other health and human services departments through a dedicated department. This new dynamic creates a unique opportunity for the new Director to formalize internal operations, expand services, and lead organizational changes. A temporary interim Department Director is currently managing the department.

The Director oversees all administrative and programmatic functions within the Department, including residential services, voluntary youth shelter operations, and the development of new community programs designed to support youth and emerging adults. The Director is responsible for preparing and managing the department’s budget, overseeing staff, and aligning services with County priorities. This includes ensuring operational efficiency, compliance with regulatory requirements, and fostering meaningful collaboration with the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice and its Court Service Unit, as well as other County departments, the local school division, and community-based partners.

The Director currently has three (3) direct reports: two (2) Assistant Directors and an Administrative Manager.  The Director reports to one of Loudoun County’s Deputy County Administrators.

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated hiring range for this position is $185,000 - $210,000, depending on qualifications. Loudoun County provides an excellent benefits package. Learn more about the County’s options and employee-based benefits here.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will remain open until filled, with a first review of applications scheduled to begin on February 13, 2026.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements include any combination of education and experience equivalent to a master’s degree in business management, criminal justice, public administration, psychology, social work, or a related field, and six (6) years of related experience, including two (2) years in a management role and operational oversight experience.

Preferred qualifications include experience leading in a local government or public-sector environment, with demonstrated expertise in youth detention, juvenile justice, and diversion and prevention programs. Experience managing a department and working with senior executives is also preferred. Working in a union environment and building a new department, function, or program area is also desirable.

The Director must also have a valid driver’s license and submit to a child protective services and criminal background check.

About Loudoun County

Raftelis is an industry leader in financial, organizational, communication, and technology consulting for utilities and the public sector. We provide insights and expertise to help government agencies operate as high-performing, sustainable entities, and, ultimately, make their communities better places to live, work, and play.

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