Youth Care Specialist (8386)

About the role

LSF envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant. This is a direct service delivery position where you will supervise youth ages 10–17, provide quality care, ensure a safe and secure environment, and transport and accompany residents on outside activities. You will serve as a role model, encouraging each resident to pursue educational growth and everyday life skills.

Responsibilities

• Detect and address potential safety and security hazards for youth in residence; recommend and implement corrective actions as required.
• Participate in the implementation and monitoring of client case plans as directed.
• Assist with day-to-day maintenance of the facility in conjunction with the Program Manager.
• Help ensure 24-hour direct care staff coverage with the Program Manager.
• Screen clients, conduct initial intakes, and administer client satisfaction surveys as directed.
• Coordinate and assist with youth intakes and orientation during the intake process.
• Maintain reports in coordination with the Program Manager.
• Supervise youth as needed, including preparation of meals and completion of chores.
• Supervise and schedule maintenance and upkeep of program vehicles.
• Perform related work as required and directed by the Program Manager.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program/Operations Director and/or the Program Manager.

Physical Requirements

• Remain physically active throughout the workday, including frequent walking, standing, bending, stooping, and lifting.
• Ability to safely and effectively intervene in crisis situations, including physically guiding or restraining youth when necessary and appropriate, following agency policies and training.
• Capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Move quickly and respond promptly to emergency situations.
• Regularly required to talk and hear; communicate effectively with youth and team members.
• Operate standard office equipment, including computers and phones, for documentation and communication.
• Work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather.
• Maintain visual and auditory acuity sufficient to ensure the safety of youth in care.
• Demonstrate a high level of energy and full physical capabilities such as lifting, bending, cooking, cleaning, and using the telephone.
• Transport youth in the program vehicle and accompany youth on field trips/recreational outings.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• This is an entry-level position; experience working with youth in an organized/structured setting is preferred at the discretion of the Supervisor/Manager.

Skills

• Strong organization, written, and verbal skills.
• Dependability, discretion, and good judgment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with clients, co-workers, and the general public.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs.

Principal Accountabilities

• Reports to Program Manager.
• Attend a mandatory monthly staff meeting.
• Detect and address safety and security hazards.
• Act as a team player with co-workers and administrators.
• Ensure the maintenance of the shelter.
• Demonstrate effective staff management and leadership.
• Adhere to agency policies and procedures.
• Attend all required training.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Telehealth (24/7 online access to doctors).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employer-paid life insurance (1× salary).
• 13 paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday.
• Generous PTO policy starting at 16 working days per year (Head Start employees’ PTO and holiday schedule may differ).
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% discretionary employer match OR 3% student loan repayment reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement.