Youth Care Specialist
Location: Rockdale, TX | Job Type: Full-Time | Various Shifts (Waking & Non-Waking Hours)
About Youth Opportunity & Rockdale Youth Academy (Rockdale, TX)
Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Rockdale Youth Academy in Rockdale, Texas is a 65-bed secure Youth Academy for males ages 10 to 17, offering trauma-informed care across mental health, substance abuse, and sex-offender treatment needs. The center integrates clinical therapy, education (via Inspire Academy, including GED prep), restorative justice, therapeutic recreation, and life skills training. Youth typically stay 6 to 9 months, engaging in individual, family, and group therapy; victim-impact awareness; pre-vocational preparation; and enrichment activities such as art, music, and recreation. Small group living units, Youth Advisory Board-guided incentive programs, and licensed dietitian-managed nutrition support stabilization and reintegration planning.
About The Role
As a Youth Care Specialist, you will supervise and support 7–10 youth through daily activities while helping them develop the internal skills they need to succeed. You’ll play a vital role in ensuring safety, modeling positive behaviors, and contributing to each youth’s treatment progress.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and monitor youth activities, safety, and well-being
- Facilitate group meetings and support conflict resolution
- Implement behavior management systems and de-escalation techniques
- Assist with schoolwork, activities, and treatment goals
- Document daily progress, incidents, and observations
- Communicate with treatment teams about youth progress
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to pass background checks
Qualifications
Preferred:
- 2 years of college coursework or experience working with youth
- CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention certification (or willingness to obtain)
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period
- Free RX delivery on most medications
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development
- Robust Employee Assistance Program
- Supportive, mission-driven work environment
Pay
$17.00/hr
Schedule
Includes evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays