Direct Care Professional

Job Description

Job Description

7 ALPHA is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization licensed as a Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP). We are committed to delivering trauma-informed care and unwavering support to youth in a safe, structured, and nurturing environment. Our mission is to foster stability, encourage personal growth, and build essential life skills—empowering youth to transition successfully and confidently into the community.
Position Summary
Direct Support Professional Care Staff are responsible for the daily supervision, guidance, and support of youth in care, ensuring safety, emotional well-being, and compliance with program rules. Staff members will provide a combination of therapeutic interaction, role modeling, crisis intervention, and life skills training in alignment with STRTP policies and trauma-informed practices.

• Monitor youth to ensure safety, structure, and positive engagement at all times.
• Implement trauma-informed and therapeutic behavioral support strategies.
• Support youth in daily routines, personal hygiene, and life skills development.
• Participate in recreational, educational, and therapeutic activities.
• Complete timely documentation, including incident reports, daily logs, and behavioral notes.
• De-escalate and manage crises in accordance with approved intervention techniques.
• Transport youth to appointments, school, and activities using agency vehicles.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and clinical staff regarding youth progress and needs.

Requirements

Direct Care Staff Requirements

Prior to employment, direct care staff must meet at least one qualification and demonstrate relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities:

1. Bachelor’s Degree (B.A. or B.S.).

2. Child Development Teaching Permit .

3. 12 semester units in Early Childhood Education, Adolescent Development, Foster and Kinship Care Education, or Psychology plus 100 hours of on-the-job experience working with children (which may be completed after hire, but until then the staff cannot count toward ratios or be left unsupervised).

4. Alcohol/Drug Counseling Certificate plus 100 hours of experience with children.

5. Vocational training certificate/credential or journeyperson status, plus 100 hours of relevant experience (e.g., mentor, teacher, coach, counselor, or caregiver in a residential setting).

6. One year of prior experience as a full-time staff or volunteer at a group home, STRTP, or substance abuse treatment program.

7. Relevant life experience in child welfare, mental health, or juvenile justice systems as a consumer, mentor, or caregiver, or life experience caring for children with high needs.

• Experience:
• At least 100 hours working with youth in a residential, group home, school, or related setting; STRTP experience preferred.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care and behavioral management practices.
• Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years old.
• Valid California Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
• Ability to pass a DOJ/FBI background check , Child Abuse Index check, and pre-employment physical/TB test.
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain before start date).

Compensation: Competitive hourly wage based on experience and qualifications.

How to Apply: Submit your resume to View email address on ziprecruiter.com with the subject line “Direct Support Care Staff Application.”