Youth Specialist

Responsibilities

• Provide for the physical, emotional, and social needs of youth in care, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
• Supervise and guide youth interactions to promote positive, respectful relationships and consistent structure.
• Build therapeutic relationships through patient, compassionate, and consistent communication.
• Engage youth in daily routines, recreational activities, and educational or life-skills programs.
• Implement treatment plans, behavioral support programs, and agency policies with fairness and consistency.
• Serve as a positive role model by displaying professionalism, emotional stability, self-control, and sound judgment.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to the development of treatment goals and plans.
• Document youth activities, incidents, and progress accurately in logs, reports, and electronic records.
• Assist with daily living activities including meals, laundry, cleaning, and personal care routines.
• Transport and supervise youth during appointments, school, work, home visits, and community outings.
• Respond appropriately and therapeutically to incidents of verbal or physical aggression in accordance with training and policy.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to each youth’s individual background, needs, and developmental level.
• Collaborate with team members, families, and supervisors to maintain a positive, trauma-informed care environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Minimum one year of experience working with children in a child care institution, residential setting, or special education environment (required)
• Valid Michigan driver’s license with a clean driving record (required)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays (required)
• Compassionate, patient, and dependable, with a commitment to quality and teamwork