DIRECT CARE WORKER - EXTENDED DAY TREATMENT PROGRAM

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Care Worker – Extended Day Treatment Program

Hamden, CT | Full-Time | Non-Exempt

Make a Positive Impact on Youth and Families

The Children’s Center of Hamden is seeking Direct Care Workers with at least 2 years’ experience working with children ages 5 to 17, to become part of our Extended Day Treatment (EDT) Team.

The EDT program provides short-term intensive behavioral health services for youth that need more than weekly counseling. You will be part of a team that provides trauma informed care while supporting emotional and behavioral development. You will supervise activities to promote the development of age-appropriate social skills. Working closely with clinicians, you will participate in treatment plan meetings and work with families to promote success and resilience.

Why Join The Children’s Center?

We are a collaborative, mission-driven team! Every Direct Care Worker is provided with the tools, training, and guidance to expand their knowledge, skills and abilities while making a meaningful impact on youth and their families.

Comprehensive Benefits – Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits including company paid life insurance and short-term disability. Wellness programs and Employee Assistance Program included.

Generous Paid Time Off – Vacation, sick, personal days, and 12 paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving.

Retirement Saving - 401(k) plan with employer contribution to save for the future.

Professional Growth & Development – Interest-free tuition loans, ongoing CEU-accredited training, and opportunities for career advancement.

Supportive, Mission-Driven Culture – Join a collaborative team where your work truly makes a difference for youth and families.

What You’ll Do

As Direct Care Worker , you will:

• Supervise recreational activities, and educational or therapeutic programming.
• Support emotional, social, academic, and behavioral development using trauma-informed care principles.
• Provide crisis prevention, intervention, and counseling as needed, including monitoring individuals in crisis situations.
• Assist with meals and other program-specific duties.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including group notes, incident reports, and administrative records.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and workshops to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity, uphold professional boundaries, and contribute to a safe and respectful environment.

What We’re Looking For

• 2+ years’ experience in mental health services with children/adolescents REQUIRED.
• Knowledge of direct care, facilitating groups and behavioral support strategies strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Health or related field preferred.
• Ability to understand the challenges of population served, assess needs, and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Strong ability to maintain safety, discipline, and structure.
• Demonstrated compassion, patience, and flexibility in working with youth with diverse needs.

Physical Work Requirements

• Ability to perform light to moderate lifting, standing, walking, bending, and other physical tasks as needed.

Join Our Team

If you’re passionate about providing hands-on support and guidance to children and adolescents and want to make a meaningful difference every day, The Children’s Center may be the place for you! Apply now and help us create safe, supportive environments that foster growth, resilience, and success.

The Children’s Center of Hamden is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

School Session: Mon - Fri, 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Summer Session: Mon - Fri, 7:30 am - 3:30 pm