Lead Youth Care Specialist

Description

Thompson was founded in 1886 as an orphanage and has since expanded to operate across multiple states, including the Carolinas, Florida, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Thompson's continuum of care includes prevention, mental health services, and foster care, all of which are trauma-informed and evidence-based.

What will you do?

• Serve as critical support to Program Supervisors by providing operational oversight, coaching, and coordination across transitional housing sites in Tennessee.
• Work both day and night shifts, supporting regular check-ins with Youth Care Specialists (YCS).
• Assist with onboarding new staff, including training coordination, badge setup, and documentation.
• Serve as a point of contact for YCS staff when Program Supervisors are off-site.
• Monitor daily operations across assigned sites, ensuring adequate staffing and shift coverage.
• Audit and ensure documentation meets DCS and internal standards.
• Maintain adherence to trauma-informed care principles and contract goals.
• Collaborate with Program Supervisors and DCS Program Coordinators to align staffing and service delivery.
• Participate in team meetings, hiring panels, and tactical planning sessions.
• Relay feedback and concerns from YCS staff to leadership for resolution and improvement.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisor.

What does this position offer?

• Starting Pay Range: $22 - $23.00/hourly based on experience
• Fantastic full-time benefits, including 3 weeks paid time off (PTO) the first year plus 10 paid holidays!
• Health, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance options
• 401K match
• Education reimbursement
• Eligibility to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through FAFSA after 10 years of service
• Paid time off for volunteering in the community
• Free EAP services
• Mileage reimbursement if applicable
• iPhone and Laptop provided
• Multiple opportunities for growth

Requirements

• Must have a valid Driver’s License
• Meet any credentialing, licensing, and privileging standards as it pertains to the program(s) they lead
• High School Diploma required
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred
• A minimum of two (2) years’ experience working in a residential youth operation or related experience working in the field of child and family services
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care, child development, and crisis intervention
• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience, preferred
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite application software
• Ability to work flexible 8-hour shifts which may include days, nights, and weekends