Rochester Group Home Family Specialist (5995)

About the role

The Family Specialist is responsible for coordinating therapeutic activities for youth and families so youth can live safely, productively and independently within their home community.

Responsibilities

• Provide a steady presence during crisis situations, helping youth restore safety and stability through a calm, solution-focused approach.
• Support youth and families throughout the full course of care — assessment, supportive counseling, treatment planning, discharge planning.
• Facilitate psycho-educational and independent living groups that prepare youth for adulthood: budgeting, job applications, cooking, housing, healthcare, daily living skills.
• Serve as the link between school and home, attending CSE and IEP meetings, advocating for appropriate supports, maintaining continuity of a youth's education through transitions.
• Serve in multiple roles throughout the day — mentor, job coach, educator, advocate — from preparing a youth for a first interview to supporting them through a difficult family conversation.
• Structure home visits as goal-driven time that rebuilds trust and communication between youth and family.
• Lead treatment reviews that align the team around a shared plan and a clear record of progress.
• Maintain strong working relationships with referring agencies and county caseworkers to ensure coordinated, uninterrupted service.
• Complete documentation accurately and on time, capturing each youth's progress in accordance with state and agency standards.

Requirements

• Minimum of Bachelor's degree in social work or related field required; MSW preferred.
• Minimum of 1–3 years of experience working with diverse youth and families.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule including night and weekend hours as necessary.
• Must have a current and valid driver's license with acceptable driving history to the Agency.
• Ability to work with economically and culturally diverse populations.

Skills

• Ability to handle crisis intervention in a solution-focused manner.
• Communication skills including written, verbal, and listening skills.

Benefits

• Paid orientation and training: all new hires complete 2–3 weeks of mandatory, fully paid training (Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; full attendance required) before transitioning into the permanent assigned shift.

Schedule

Flexible schedule required, including night and weekend hours as necessary.