Atlas House - Substitute Youth Care Specialist

Substitute Youth Care Specialist - On Call / As Needed Both day and overnight shifts available. Are you passionate about supporting youth and looking for flexible work that makes a meaningful impact? We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and adaptable Substitute Youth Care Specialists to provide coverage within our Independent Living Program on an as-needed basis. Substitute staff play a critical role in maintaining consistency, safety, and support for youth when full time staff are unavailable. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy flexible scheduling while still being part of a mission driventeam supporting adolescents transitioning toward independence and adulthood. As a Substitute Youth Care Specialist, you will step into the daily rhythm of the program by supporting youth through mentorship, structure, encouragement, and life-skills development. Whether covering a planned shift, assisting during staffing shortages, or helping during higher needs periods, substitute staff help ensure youth continue to receive stable and supportive care. Position Expectations Must be available to pick up shifts as needed, including weekdays, evenings, weekends,holidays, and awake overnight shifts depending on program needsMust work a minimum of one shift every 60 days to remain active and eligible for employmentFlexibility and responsiveness to scheduling needs are highly valued in this role What Youll Do Build positive, professional relationships with youth through mentorship, professional boundaries, accountability, and consistencySupport youth in developing independent living skills including budgeting, cooking, hygiene, organization, employment readiness, communication, and community engagementMaintain a safe, structured, and supportive home environmentFacilitate group sessions around life skills, emotional regulation, health education, healthy relationships, and substance use education and prevention.Facilitate house meetings, and take residents out for recreational activitiesSupport youth through emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention when neededAssist with transportation, appointments, school support, employment goals, and community activitiesComplete daily documentation, progress notes, and incident reportingConducting rounds and ensuring the physical sight of each resident and trackingCollaborate closely with case managers, supervisors, community partners, and treatment teamsModel healthy communication, boundaries, and problem-solving skillsParticipate in household operations including meal preparation, cleaning, organization, and maintaining shared spaces What Were Looking For We are seeking someone who: Brings empathy, patience, and authenticity to their work with youthBelieves in a strengths-based and trauma-informed approachCan balance structure, accountability, and compassionCommunicates effectively and works well within a team environmentRemains calm and emotionally grounded during challenging situationsIs dependable, professional, and committed to creating a positive environment for youthUnderstands the importance of healthy boundaries and relationship-buildingValues diversity, inclusion, and culturally responsive care Qualifications Bachelors degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Juvenile Justice, Human Services, or a related field preferred OR Equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience working with youth Experience working with adolescents, foster youth, residential treatment, juvenile justice, behavioral health, or independent living programs is highly valued. Requirements Valid drivers license and ability to meet agency driving requirementsCurrent CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)Food Handlers Card required within two weeks of hireAbility to pass a criminal background checkAbility to complete required trainings including Mandatory Abuse Reporting and Bloodborne Pathogens Physical & Work Environment This is an in-person position. This role is active and hands-on. Staff should be comfortable supervising youth in both residential and community settings, navigating stairs, completing household tasks, and responding to crisis situations when necessary. The work can be emotionally demanding but deeply meaningful and rewarding. Why This Work Matters Young people in our program are learning how to navigate adulthood while carrying complex life experiences. The relationships they build with staff can have a lasting impact. We are looking for individuals who understand that healing, growth, and independence happen through consistency, patience, and connection. If you are passionate about empowering youth, creating safe spaces, and helping young people move toward independence and stability, we encourage you to apply.