Youth Care Specialist

Youth Care Specialist

Be the steady hand. Be the safe space. Be the difference.

Do you believe every young person deserves someone who sees their strength before their struggle? Are you energized by mentoring, guiding, and helping youth unlock their potential?

We're looking for a compassionate, resilient, and purpose-driven Youth Care Specialist to walk alongside young people as they build confidence, life skills, and brighter futures.

What You'll Do

As a Youth Care Specialist, you are more than staff — you are a mentor, coach, advocate, and role model.

You will:

• Engage & Inspire – Build meaningful connections that empower youth to explore their goals and discover their strengths.
• Implement Individualized Plans – Support youth-centered, strengths-based programming that helps residents transition to less restrictive settings.
• Practice Trauma-Informed Care – Use thoughtful language and approaches that promote healing, dignity, and growth.
• Teach Life Skills – Facilitate group training in hygiene, self-care, community resources, and independent living skills.
• Provide Transportation – Safely transport youth to appointments, activities, and programming (local travel required; personal vehicle use expected).
• Document with Purpose – Complete accurate electronic health record (EHR) documentation and reports.
• Prepare Meals & Daily Support – Help create a stable, nurturing daily routine.
• Collaborate with Team Members – Participate in meetings, shift transitions, supervision, and ongoing training.
• Ensure Safety – Maintain awareness of youth whereabouts and create a safe, structured environment at all times.

Who You Are

You are:

• Trauma-informed and equity-minded
• Skilled in LGBTQ+ and racial equity practices
• Patient, adaptable, and solution-focused
• Comfortable facilitating group activities
• Strong in interpersonal communication
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Calm and confident in high-stress environments

Work Environment

This role operates in a professional residential setting, which may include shelters, group homes, or detention facilities serving youth ages 0–24.

This position is:

• On-site (no remote option)
• Considered essential
• Physically active and demanding
• Exposed to potentially high-stress situations

You must be comfortable with:

• Standing, walking, bending, and lifting 50+ lbs regularly
• Working evenings, weekends, holidays, or overnight shifts as needed
• Exposure to challenging behaviors and crisis situations

Qualifications

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED
• CPR/First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain)

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree
• 1+ year experience working with youth
• Background or coursework in education, social work, or psychology

Why This Role Matters

You will be the person who:

• Helps a young person regain control after a crisis
• Teaches life skills that change someone's future
• Models healthy communication and problem-solving
• Provides stability when life feels uncertain

This is not just a job. It's an opportunity to transform lives — including your own.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are passionate about youth advocacy, believe in second chances, and thrive in meaningful, hands-on work, we encourage you to apply.

Join us in helping youth reach their full potential — one connection at a time.