Youth Care Specialist

Youth Care Specialist Residential Youth Services

Location: Mt. Juliet, TN Job Type: Full-Time | Various Shifts (Waking & Non-Waking Hours) Pay: $17.00 - $18.00/hr Schedule: Includes evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays

About Youth Opportunity & Cleveland Youth Academy (Mt. Juliet, TN)

Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Mt. Juliet Youth Academy in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee provides trauma-informed residential care for females ages 12 to 17 within a secure, structured Youth Academy setting. Programming includes clinical therapy, education, life skills training, restorative justice, art, music, and recreation.

Youth typically remain in care for 6 to 9 months, engaging in individual, family, and group therapy; victim-impact awareness; pre-vocational preparation; and enrichment programming. The small group environment supports emotional healing, family involvement, and reintegration planning.

About the Role

As a Youth Care Specialist, you will supervise and support 710 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.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period
• Free RX delivery on most medications
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development
• Robust Employee Assistance Program
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and monitor youth activities, safety, and well-being
• Facilitate group meetings and support conflict resolution
• Implement behavior management systems and de-escalation techniques
• Assist with schoolwork, activities, and treatment goals
• Document daily progress, incidents, and observations
• Communicate with treatment teams about youth progress

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to pass background checks

Preferred:

• 2 years of college coursework or experience working with youth
• CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention certification (or willingness to obtain)