Developmental Care Specialist (Full-Time) | Residential Behavioral Health

Wedgwood Christian Services•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•$21 - $23

About The Position

Developmental Care Specialist (Part-Time) | Residential Behavioral Health VanderArk B Program | Girls Ages 1217 | Specialized program for girls with developmental disabilities Why Wedgwood? Since 1960, Wedgwood Christian Services has been dedicated to boldly taking on the toughest mental health and behavioral health problems in West Michigan. We serve children, teens, families, and adults through residential care, counseling services, and community programs. Join a Trauma-Informed Residential Treatment Team We are seeking a Developmental Care Specialist to provide direct care within our residential behavioral health program serving adolescent girls (ages 1217). Many of the boys in our VanderArk B Program have never experienced consistent safety or stability. As a Developmental Care Specialist, you will show up daily as a stable, caring adult helping youth build resilience, practice emotional regulation, and envision a future beyond trauma. In addition to supporting normal daily operations of the residential unit, you will coordinate with the Program BCBA to implement focused behavioral intervention based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). You may facilitate social interactions, as well as design and conduct exciting daily small group activities in a fun, engaging environment. If you are passionate about behavioral health, trauma-informed residential care, ABA, youth advocacy, and therapeutic mentorship , we invite you to apply. Schedule: 4 weekdays (primarily 2nd shift) and every other weekend (Saturday & Sunday, rotating 1nd/2nd shift) 1st shift: 7am3pm 2nd shift: 3pm11pm Compensation: $20.50 - $22.50/hour Comprehensive benefits package Generous PTO package Time-and-a-half pay for hours worked on holidays Employer-paid training and re-certification

Requirements

At least 20 years of age
High school diploma or GED
Valid drivers license
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and safely perform physical interventions when necessary
Alignment with Wedgwoods 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