Developmental Care Specialist (Full-Time) | Residential Behavioral Health
About The Position
Wedgwood Christian Services is seeking a Developmental Care Specialist to provide direct care within their residential behavioral health program serving adolescent boys (ages 12-17). This specialized program, VanderArk A, focuses on boys with developmental disabilities who may have experienced inconsistent safety or stability. The Developmental Care Specialist will act as a stable, caring adult, helping youth build resilience, practice emotional regulation, and envision a future beyond trauma. The role involves supporting daily operations of the residential unit, coordinating with the Program BCBA to implement focused behavioral interventions based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles, facilitating social interactions, and designing/conducting small group activities. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about behavioral health, trauma-informed residential care, ABA, youth advocacy, and therapeutic mentorship.
Requirements
- At least 20 years of age
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver's license
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and safely perform physical interventions when necessary
- Alignment with Wedgwood's Statement of Faith, vision and values
Nice To Haves
- Applied Behavioral Analysis
- Social Work (BSW in progress or completed)
- Psychology
- Counseling
- Human Services
- Child Development
- Criminal Justice (youth focus)
- Addiction Studies
- Behavioral Health or related field
- Residential treatment (adolescents or adults)
- ABA Therapy (in home or center based)
- Behavioral health or mental health settings
- Juvenile justice or youth-serving programs
- Crisis intervention or trauma-informed environments
- Rehabilitation or recovery centers/shelters
- Group homes, inpatient, or community mental health
Responsibilities
- Implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with therapists and case managers.
- Create and maintain a safe, therapeutic environment grounded in the Sanctuary Model® (safety, emotional intelligence, open communication, and social learning).
- Build consistent, mentoring relationships using trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches.
- Utilize verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to support behavioral regulation.
- Model and teach healthy communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills.
- Support youth in developing life skills, self-worth, and positive identity formation.
- Engage in structured recreational and skill-building activities.
- Administer medications as assigned and support physical wellness routines.
- Document and maintain accurate records in alignment with behavioral health standards.
- Transport residents to appointments, school, court, or community activities as needed.
Benefits
- 403(b) with employer match
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Free supplemental virtual PCP care with medical plan
- Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
- Employer-paid short- and long-term disability
- Life insurance (up to 2x salary)
- Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer
- Pet Insurance
- Legal Insurance
- On-site gymnasium & 24-hour wellness center
- Tuition discounts through community partnerships
- Employee Assistance Program
- Beautiful on-campus walking trail
- Generous PTO package
- Time-and-a-half pay for hours worked on holidays
- Employer-paid training and re-certification
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
