Youth Shelter Worker - Part-Time Weekends - 2nd & 3rd Shifts

Location: Milwaukee | Department: Shelter Care | Status: Part‑time (weekends, 2nd & 3rd shifts)

Job Summary

Join the Youth Shelter Program as a Youth Care Worker, providing safe, supportive, and empowering care to young individuals (ages 12‑17) in a state‑licensed shelter. You will serve as a positive role model, assist with daily activities, and help foster a nurturing environment that promotes growth, stability, and hope.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct, continuous support to youth in the shelter, never leaving them alone.
• Supervise youth at all times with in‑person observation (no camera‑only supervision).
• Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meal preparation, and recreational activities.
• Monitor residents’ behavior and implement behavior‑management strategies to promote positive interactions.
• Maintain close communication with other staff members throughout the shift.
• Support youth with individual care plans, including medication administration and health monitoring (e.g., vital signs).
• Document care provided using electronic medical record (EMR) systems and update case‑management files regularly.
• Facilitate conflict resolution and de‑escalation techniques to create a calm, respectful environment.
• Perform light cleaning duties to ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming space for all residents.

Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years of experience working with youth ages 12‑17.
• High school diploma or GED/HSED required.
• Successful completion of WCS and funder/licensing requirements, including reference, criminal and caregiver background checks, a valid driver’s license, and an acceptable driver’s record.

Skills

• Working knowledge of positive child/youth development.
• Patience and understanding of difficult life situations.
• Ability to interact with escalating youth and/or parents calmly and professionally.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and respond appropriately in crisis situations.
• Basic computer proficiency and efficient time management.
• Multi‑tasking ability and sensitivity to cultural, ethnic, and disability issues.

Physical Demands

• Potential for physical activity while monitoring or interacting with youth.
• May need to use physical intervention if immediate harm is posed to youth or staff.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Driving may be required.

Work Environment

• State‑licensed shelter care facility; work occurs throughout the building, in the community, and occasionally in a youth’s home.
• Local travel as required to fulfill essential functions.
• Ability to provide coverage as needed.
• Managing youth who have experienced significant trauma and may express it through behavior.
• Driving required.