Direct Care Support Professional

Be the Steady Adult a Young Person Can Count On Some youth need more than supervision. They need structure. Consistency. Accountability. Patience. Encouragement. Calm leadership. Safe boundaries. Adults who don’t give up on them when things get difficult. That is the work we do at Kentucky United Methodist Children’s Homes (KyUMH). Youth Care Associates work directly with teen boys in residential treatment who are learning how to manage emotions, handle conflict, build healthier relationships, and move toward a more stable future. This role is hands‑on, fast‑paced, and meaningful. Some days are rewarding. Some are difficult. The work matters every day. What You’ll Do Build professional, supportive relationships with youth ages 12-17 Help create a safe, structured, and respectful environment Teach and reinforce emotional regulation, communication, responsibility, and problem‑solving skills Support youth through stressful situations, setbacks, conflict, and behavioral crises Work as part of a team to maintain safety and consistency Use verbal de‑escalation and Safe Crisis Management techniques when necessary (training provided) Participate in recreational activities, transportation, meals, daily routines, and community activities Model professionalism, emotional control, accountability, and healthy boundaries Encourage youth growth while maintaining clear expectations and consistency Who Succeeds in This Role Calm under pressure Consistent and dependable Emotionally steady Team‑oriented Good communicators Able to balance empathy with accountability Comfortable setting healthy boundaries Able to stay professional during stressful situations Successful staff come from many different backgrounds, including: Behavioral health, social work, human services, or psychology Education Criminal justice, first responder, or military experience Youth programs, coaching, or mentoring You do not need prior experience in residential treatment to succeed here. We provide training and support for the right people. What You’ll Receive Paid training in trauma‑informed care, crisis intervention, and de‑escalation Hands‑on experience in behavioral health and youth mentorship Supportive team environment Health, dental, vision, and life insurance 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match Paid vacation, sick leave, and mental health care Eight paid holidays plus one floating holiday Tuition assistance and continuing education support Employee Assistance Program Position Details Location: Nicholasville, KY Department: Treatment Schedule: Full‑time and part‑time positions available Pay: $16 - $18/hour based on education and experience Requirements High School Diploma or GED Valid Kentucky Driver’s License Ability to pass background check and drug screening Ability to complete Safe Crisis Management training CPR/First Aid certification required (training provided) About KyUMH For more than 150 years, KyUMH has served youth and families through residential treatment and supportive services designed to help young people build safer, healthier, and more stable futures. Equal Opportunity Employer KyUMH is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. #J-18808-Ljbffr Kentucky United Methodist Children's Homes