YOUTH SPECIALIST

Specific Responsibilities

• Provide 24/7 “eyes on” client supervision, including ensuring compliance with the daily schedule and maintaining program structure.
• Implement group and individual treatment plans utilizing the Missouri Approach.
• Develop and model effective relationships and behaviors with youth, co-workers, and the treatment team.
• Ensure that residents are provided with quality care in matters of health, safety, clothing, hygiene, and meals, and provide immediate therapeutic crisis intervention as needed.
• Demonstrate a commitment to the program’s mission by supporting a safe, orderly, caring, and therapeutic environment.
• Accompany youth to school, appointments, and all group activities.
• Appropriately confront negative behaviors whenever they occur.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum possession of a High School Diploma or GED required; Associate or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Previous experience in group work involving direct care and interaction with children.
• Must successfully complete Safety Crisis Management (SCM) training, including a written test and demonstration of competency in physical restraints as specified by the program and regulatory bodies. Continued employment requires successful completion of all SCM refreshers.
• Ability to work varied hours as required.
• A valid driver’s license from NY, NJ, or CT is required.
• Must be able to provide excellent references.

Relationship with Others

• Must be a team player.
• Must demonstrate strong sensitivity to cultural differences, including sexual orientation and identity, among staff and clients.
• Must possess a strong belief in individuals’ ability to grow and change and be able to forge mutually respectful partnerships with clients and their families.
• Ability to set limits, maintain the practitioner’s helping role, and intervene appropriately.

Scope of Responsibility

• Participate in staff and/or team meetings.
• Complete Safe Crisis Management training and all required refreshers.

Working Conditions

• Work takes place in a residential setting with juveniles.
• Employees must be able to work effectively and efficiently in a demanding environment.

Organizational Structure

• Expected to work within a collaborative partnership.

SCO Family of Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

SCO Family of Services is committed to ensuring the safety of our clients. All staff are screened and trained. Any inappropriate interactions with clients are taken seriously. We will fully cooperate with authorities in any case of abuse.