Direct Care / Youth Mentor

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Youth Mentor provides direct care, supervision, and support to youth in a residential treatment setting. This role supports implementation of individualized service plans, promotes safety, teaches daily living skills, and contributes to a structured, therapeutic environment aligned with policies, procedures and guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 24/7 supervision and support to youth
• Implement behavior management and intervention strategies under the supervision of clinical staff
• Use trauma-informed, relationship-based approaches in all interactions
• Assist with daily living activities (meals, hygiene, routines)
• Model appropriate behavior, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution
• Promote the development of social, emotional, and independent living skills
• Monitor and document resident behavior and incidents
• Support intake, transitions, and crisis situations
• Supervise peer interactions and intervene appropriately to maintain safety.
• Maintain a safe, structured, and supportive environment
• Maintain awareness of youth with specialized needs (e.g., sexualized behaviors, crisis history) and follow program protocols

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s preferred
• Experience working with youth, behavioral health, or residential care preferred
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care is a plus

Documentation & Communication

• Complete accurate, timely, and objective documentation, including daily progress notes, incident reports, and behavioral observations. 
• Communicate significant events, concerns, and progress to supervisors and clinical teams. 
• Participate in shift briefings and team communication processes. 
• Maintain documentation in accordance with regulatory, licensing, and accreditation standards. 

Safety & Crisis Intervention

• Respond to behavioral crises using approved intervention techniques. 
• Use least restrictive interventions in accordance with training and policy. 
• Participate in de-escalation and crisis prevention strategies. 
• Follow all protocols for incident reporting, abuse or neglect reporting, and emergency procedures. 
• Ensure the safety of all youth at all times. 

Daily Living & Milieu Management

• Actively participate in the residential milieu (therapeutic environment). 
• Assist youth with hygiene and personal care, nutrition and meals, chores and responsibilities, and daily routines and structure. 
• Lead and support recreational and skill-building activities. 
• Ensure living areas are clean, safe, and organized. 

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED required
• Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts (day/night/weekends)
• Successful pass a background check and meet state regulatory requirements
• Physical ability to respond to crisis situations
• Must complete required training and certifications

Preferred Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in human services or related field preferred
• Relevant experience working with youth or behavioral health populations
  

Standard Compliance Requirements

All candidates must:

• Pass criminal background checks (state and federal)
• Clear NC Sex Offender Registry, Health Care Personnel Registry, and RIL checks
• Provide medical clearance and TB screening
• Obtain CPR/First Aid certification (if not already certified)
• Complete required training (trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, etc.) 

Schedule Requirements

• Must be available to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on program needs.
• Staff are required to remain alert and awake during all assigned shifts.