Youth Care Specialist

Youth Care Specialist – Residential Youth ServicesLocation: Elizabethton, TN – Elizabethton Youth Academy Job Type: Full-Time | Various Shifts (Waking & Non-Waking Hours) Pay: $17.00 hr Schedule: Includes evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidaysAbout Youth Opportunity & Elizabethton Youth Academy (Elizabethton, TN)Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Elizabethton Youth Academy in Elizabethton, Tennessee is a secure Youth Academy providing trauma-informed residential care for adjudicated boys. Youth benefit from structured education, clinical mental health treatment, restorative justice, and pre-vocational training, delivered in a safe, therapeutic setting.Youth typically remain in care for 6 to 9 months, participating in individual, family, and group therapy; life skills and social skills training; victim-impact awareness; and restorative justice. Small group living units support family engagement and prepare youth for successful transition to community life.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)