Relief Direct Care Worker (1818)
About The Position
The House of the Good Shepherd (HGS) has been changing children’s lives for over 150 years. We provide individualized, compassionate care to youth and families through a range of residential, educational, community, and foster care programs across Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, and the North Country. Our agency is built on a foundation of empathy, resilience, and the Sanctuary Model of care, which guides our commitment to healing and hope. As a Relief Direct Care Worker, you’ll be a steady presence for children and teens who have experienced significant trauma. In this role, you’ll help create a sense of structure, safety, and security as they navigate daily life in a residential setting. The work can be challenging, but your support will be a key part of a young person’s healing journey. We’re seeking mission-driven individuals who are passionate about youth development, responsive care, and teamwork. This is a great role for someone who is dependable, compassionate, and eager to learn.
Requirements
- High School diploma or GED required.
- Must have a valid NYS driver’s license and complete training to drive agency vehicles.
- Must be able to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Confident in setting healthy boundaries and responding to challenging behavior with care and consistency.
- Skilled at building strong, respectful connections with youth, families, and coworkers.
- Open to learning and able to complete required trainings like Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, CPR, and First Aid.
- Detail-oriented, dependable, and able to follow procedures and document accurately.
- Brings patience, resilience, and emotional steadiness to the work.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with youth or in a caregiving role is highly desirable.
Responsibilities
- Support program coverage by rotating between units and stepping in during staff vacations or other leave periods to ensure continuity of care and stability for youth.
- Provide leadership support by assuming shift supervisor responsibilities when the designated supervisor is unavailable, helping maintain structure and consistency within the program.
Benefits
- $1,000 sign on bonus!
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits
- 403(b) retirement plan with agency match
- Tuition reimbursement
- Professional development opportunities and ongoing job training. Many of our supervisors and leaders started as Direct Care Workers—grow with us!
- Opportunities for internal growth and advancement
- Supportive, mission-driven work environment
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
