Youth Specialist

About the Role

Becoming A Man (BAM) Youth Specialist II’s guide young male-identifying youth in grades 7–12 to develop social skills, make responsible decisions, and become positive members of their school and community. Using academic training in psychology, social work, or counseling, BAM Youth Specialist II’s employ evidence-informed practices, trauma-informed engagement, and culturally responsive approaches to support youth growth through group sessions and individualized support.

This role supports programming at Santee High School in the LA Unified School District (LAUSD).

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the BAM Program Supervisor, Curriculum Specialist, and school administration to identify, recruit, and build relationships with up to 60 school-based youth for BAM participation.
• Lead and facilitate 4–5 weekly BAM groups during the school day, using youth engagement, clinical counseling, and rites of passage/interpersonal work skills.
• Provide individualized, clinically informed support to all BAM participants, including individual, family, and crisis counseling sessions as needed.
• Offer trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate support, such as one-on-one check-ins, case management, and goal setting.
• Participate in monthly staff development training and team meetings on the evidence-based BAM curriculum and youth-related topics.
• Engage in supervision and coaching to ensure program delivery fidelity.
• Deliver crisis intervention, risk assessments, and short-term individual interventions aligned with adolescent mental health best practices and school-based clinical protocols.
• Document all youth interactions, including group and individual case notes, clinical assessments, brief encounters, special events, program consents, pre/post surveys, and monthly program narratives.
• Manage an annual program budget with the BAM Regional Manager to plan and execute field trips and special events for students during the school year and summer.
• Collaborate with school administration, teachers, and other Youth Guidance programs to provide and participate in professional development sessions.
• Coordinate with school staff, caregivers, and external service providers for aftercare planning, including wraparound supports, referrals to mental health or community-based services, and continuity of care.
• Collaborate with the Youth Guidance Parent Family Engagement team and school-parent engagement team.
• Participate in Journey to Self-Discovery Rites of Passage Training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Academic training in psychology, social work, or counseling.
• Experience working with youth, particularly in a school or community-based setting.
• Knowledge of evidence-informed practices, trauma-informed engagement, and culturally responsive approaches.
• Ability to facilitate group sessions and provide individualized support.
• Strong documentation and case management skills.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and supervision.