Youth Care Specialist

Youth Care Specialist – Residential Youth ServicesLocation: Rockdale, TX Job Type: Full-Time | Various Shifts (Waking & Non-Waking Hours) Pay: $17.00/hr Schedule: Includes evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidaysAbout Youth Opportunity & Rockdale Youth Academy (Rockdale, TX)Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Rockdale Youth Academy in Rockdale, Texas is a 65-bed secure Youth Academy for males ages 10 to 17, offering trauma-informed care across mental health, substance abuse, and sex-offender treatment needs. The center integrates clinical therapy, education (via Inspire Academy, including GED prep), restorative justice, therapeutic recreation, and life skills training.Youth typically stay 6 to 9 months, engaging in individual, family, and group therapy; victim-impact awareness; pre-vocational preparation; and enrichment activities such as art, music, and recreation. Small group living units, Youth Advisory Board-guided incentive programs, and licensed dietitian-managed nutrition support stabilization and reintegration planning.About the RoleAs a Youth Care Specialist, you will supervise and support 7–10 youth through daily activities while helping them develop the internal skills they need to succeed. You'll play a vital role in ensuring safety, modeling positive behaviors, and contributing to each youth's treatment progress.BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate VestingPaid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay periodFree RX delivery on most medicationsTuition reimbursement and professional developmentRobust Employee Assistance ProgramSupportive, mission-driven work environmentKey ResponsibilitiesSupervise and monitor youth activities, safety, and well-beingFacilitate group meetings and support conflict resolutionImplement behavior management systems and de-escalation techniquesAssist with schoolwork, activities, and treatment goalsDocument daily progress, incidents, and observationsCommunicate with treatment teams about youth progressQualificationsRequired:High school diploma or equivalentValid driver's licenseAbility to pass background checksPreferred:2 years of college coursework or experience working with youthCPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention certification (or willingness to obtain)Apply TodayMake a difference with us. Youth Opportunity