Youth Specialist

Summary Under the general direction of the Assistant Youth Center Director or designated supervisory personnel, provides direct care supervision to residents of the Youth Center. Assists in providing a safe, secure environment and implementing treatment programs. Calhoun County is committed to developing and maintaining a diverse workplace that provides an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all employees and the public it serves. Responsibilities Provides direct care supervision of residents and assists in planning resident behaviors and daily activities. Attends team meetings to provide input on resident behaviors and planning. Prepares documentation of resident behaviors and actions daily using point sheets, observation notes, incident reports, shift change notes, resident files, and related documentation. Provides informal one‑on‑one counseling to assist residents in decision‑making and refers to mental health professionals when appropriate. Supervises residents’ daily hygienic procedures and related activities, including distributing clothing and personal items. Organizes and participates in recreational activities such as arts/crafts, games, gym events, outdoor activities, and additional programs with administrator approval. Transports, escorts, and monitors residents to appointments, court hearings, visitations, and other events. Assists with intakes of residents, searches for contraband, assesses potential for suicide and health concerns, and provides orientations to program rules and materials. Assists teachers, trainers, and volunteers as an aide in the classroom and manages disciplinary matters; assists residents with classroom work, homework, and studying. Instructs and supervises residents in daily housekeeping chores, laundry duties, and other cleaning tasks. Assists with token economy management, behavior modification techniques, and other strategies per approved plans and policies. Intervenes in crisis situations in accordance with policy procedures for restraints, confinements, or other appropriate actions. Modifies group management strategies based on stages of group development. Ensures adequate security measures, performs security checks, room checks, counts, and monitors cameras. Assesses medical emergencies, administers first aid, dispenses authorized medication, adheres to nutritional requirements, and facilitates after‑hour emergency care. Performs additional duties as assigned. Qualifications Minimum high school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences preferred. Experience with youth preferred. Teaching skills in group management and recreation strongly desired. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with staff. Valid MI Operator’s license and acceptable driving record. Effective interpersonal communication skills with county personnel and the public. Ability to handle simultaneous projects requiring concentration amid distractions. Physical ability to transport items up to 25 pounds, walk extended periods, perform repetitive movements, and work in confined areas. Supervisory Responsibilities None Working Conditions Hybrid work classification: on‑site required. Flexible schedule eligibility. Occasional outside work in extreme temperatures. Frequent exposure to chemicals and toxins. Potential contact with infectious disease and bodily injury during restraints. Occasional travel between County locations. Extended work days beyond eight hours per day frequently required. On‑call availability for emergencies and crisis situations at all hours frequently required. Wage Range $21.32 - $21.32 USD per hour Benefits Paid Time Off: 6.47 hours per pay period for hourly employees, 4.2 weeks annually for salaried positions. 14 paid holidays per year. Hybrid and flexible scheduling for eligible positions. 401(k) with up to 7% County match. On‑site clinic with preventive and primary care, including medications. Up to $3,000 annually in tuition reimbursement. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement As set forth in Calhoun County Government’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under any applicable law. If you believe you belong to any protected veteran category, please indicate your selection. Certification of veterans and disability status is voluntary and confidential. #J-18808-Ljbffr