Family Specialist I-IV (Success First West)

About the Role

South Coast Community Services takes pride in providing staff with competitive compensation, opportunities for professional growth, access to diverse client populations, clinical autonomy, and a strong support system of seasoned employees. The Family Specialist develops a strength-based relationship with children while providing support, case management, and behavioral coaching. This position ensures the family’s voice and choice is respected and implemented throughout the course of treatment, intervenes with maladaptive behaviors, and strives to meet the child’s needs while preserving the family unit. The role involves working both independently and with a multidisciplinary team.

Program Description

The Success First program serves children and youth ages 0-21 who are at risk of loss of placement, including those involved with the foster care or juvenile justice systems, experiencing psychiatric hospitalizations, suspensions/expulsions, or eating disorders. Children are typically referred from hospitals, schools, child and family services (CFS), probation, or the Department of Behavioral Health. Services are provided in clients’ homes, schools, or local communities, with a typical program duration of 3-6 months. The goal is to reduce disruptions to placements by improving the child’s ability to manage their mental health needs.

Responsibilities

• Assist the child in the home, school, and community by providing supportive and case management services, including mentoring, coaching, and behavioral support.
• Recognize and reinforce positive behaviors, activities, and skills exhibited by the youth.
• Ensure sensitivity to family culture, values, and beliefs, operating from a family-centered, strength-based perspective.
• Support youth in learning and applying essential skills to interact harmoniously with adults and peers in various environments.
• Provide transportation to youth for academic, social, recreational, and/or employment activities.
• Maintain proficient and accurate documentation adhering to all program, contract, and payer standards.
• Work in coordination with the client’s multidisciplinary team, including county representatives, schools, and outside agencies, in the development and execution of the treatment plan.
• Develop knowledge of community resources to serve children and their families.
• Serve on committees, lead trainings, and represent the program at community functions as needed.
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned.

Requirements

• Valid CA driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance.
• Completion of CPR/First Aid/ProACT certification within the first thirty (30) days of employment.
• Ability to drive a motor vehicle without restrictions, often in heavy traffic and for long distances (one hour or more) to transport clients safely.
• Senses of vision, hearing, and smell sufficient to operate a motor vehicle safely and assess environmental risks.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry 10-20 pounds.
• Regularly required to sit, stand, climb stairs (1 or more flights), and walk during family visits.
• Regularly required to sit and use a computer in office settings.

Qualifications

Education and experience requirements vary by tier:

• Tier I: AA or Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field (Bachelor's degree required for all Youth Partners). 1 year of experience in working with youth in a mental health or social service setting preferred.
• Tier II: Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field. 2 years of equivalent experience.
• Tier III: Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field. 4 years of equivalent experience.
• Tier IV: Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field. 6 years of equivalent experience.
• Or Master's Degree in a related field.

Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Microsoft Outlook.
• Knowledge of crisis management skills and ability to perform them as necessary.
• Ability to remain organized and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to establish and maintain appropriate rapport with children, youth, and families.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Knowledge of behavioral modification techniques and the child welfare system.

Pay

$24.50 - $26.00 hourly.