Developmental Youth Caregiver
About The Position
A Youth Caregiver at The Children’s Home Network provides daily care, supervision, safety, and emotional support to children and teenagers ages 6–17 in a therapeutic residential setting. The role supports youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and intellectual or developmental disabilities, helping them develop independence, life skills, and positive behaviors. The caregiver supports youth in daily routines and health needs, uses trauma-informed care and behavioral support approaches, teaches social and independent living skills, and participates in activities suited to each child's age and needs. The role also involves collaboration with the youth's treatment team and family, accurate documentation, medication administration, maintaining a safe residential environment, and helping prepare youth and families for foster care, adoptive placements, or reunification. Attendance at meetings and at least 40 hours of specialized training annually are required.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- At least one year of residential-setting experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- At least six months of experience working with children.
- Must be at least 23 years old.
- Patience, compassion, and empathy.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to manage challenging behaviors and stressful situations.
- Understanding of child development and individual needs.
- Reliability, attention to detail, and accurate documentation.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries and follow safety procedures.
Nice To Haves
- An associate degree in a human services-related field is preferred or listed as an additional qualification.
Responsibilities
- Ensure youth safety, health, and well-being while supporting personal hygiene, self-care, meals, bedtime routines, and daily chores.
- Use trauma-informed care, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques to address challenging behaviors and encourage positive choices.
- Teach social skills, communication, anger management, problem-solving, goal setting, housekeeping, cooking, and other independent living skills.
- Plan and participate in educational, recreational, social, spiritual, and community-based activities appropriate to each child's age and needs.
- Collaborate with therapists, teachers, medical personnel, families, and other staff to support treatment goals and youth development.
- Maintain accurate records of youth activities, behaviors, medications, safety checks, and incidents; complete environmental checks at least every 15 minutes and report concerns appropriately.
- Administer and document medications according to agency procedures and coordinate with medical staff regarding health needs.
- Help prepare youth and families for foster care, adoptive placements, or reunification.
- Keep cottages clean and organized, follow confidentiality and safety policies, and transport youth safely to activities and appointments.
- Attend team meetings and treatment plan reviews, and complete at least 40 hours of specialized training annually.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
