Residential Support Specialist

AYA Youth Collective•Grand Rapids, MI

22h•Onsite

About The Position

The Residential Support Specialist is a live-in staff member who provides daily relational support, stability, and coaching to high-needs youth ages 18–24 in AYA's Jefferson Program. This role creates a safe, predictable home environment through consistent presence, healthy routine modeling, and trauma-informed responses to everyday challenges. The Residential Support Specialist works collaboratively with the housing team to support youth in building independent living skills, navigating conflict, and achieving their individualized goals. This position requires living on-site in a private apartment within the Jefferson Program duplex and being available for informal support, crisis response, and community-building activities. What you'll be doing in this role : 1. Daily Relational Support & Community Building Maintain a consistent, warm presence in the Jefferson Program home to build trust and safety Engage youth in informal conversations, shared meals, and daily check-ins Model healthy communication, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation Foster a sense of belonging through relationship-building and community connection Create opportunities for peer support, resident-led activities, and shared experiences Facilitate weekly house meetings to build accountability, connection, and resident voice Support youth in navigating interpersonal conflicts using restorative practices 2. Modeling & Coaching Healthy Routines: Model daily living skills through example: meal preparation, cleaning, time management, self-care Provide hands-on, real-time coaching in household management (laundry, organizing, budgeting household needs) Support youth in establishing healthy sleep, hygiene, and wellness routines Encourage youth participation in household responsibilities and shared care of the space Normalize asking for help and problem-solving everyday challenges Create low-pressure opportunities for youth to practice skills at their own pace 3. Crisis Response & De-Escalation Serve as first responder to in-home crises, conflicts, or behavioral escalations Utilize trauma-informed, harm-reduction approaches to de-escalate tense situations Implement individualized crisis and safety plans in collaboration with case management team Provide calm, grounded presence during moments of distress or dysregulation Contact on-call staff, emergency services, or clinical supports as needed Document incidents and communicate concerns to Housing Director Follow AYA's crisis response protocols for medical emergencies, mental health crises, and safety threats 4. Case Management Communicate regularly about youth progress, challenges, and needs Participate in weekly team meetings and case conferencing discussions Share observations that inform individualized development plans and goal-setting Support youth in attending appointments, accessing resources, and following through on goals Coordinate with life skills coaches, clinicians, and peer support specialists Provide warm handoffs and ensure continuity of care during transitions Document daily interactions, behavioral observations, and support provided in AYA's case management system 5. Household Management & Safety Oversight Monitor home environment for safety hazards, maintenance needs, and cleanliness Coordinate with Facilities Manager to address repairs, inspections, and property concerns Ensure household supplies (cleaning products, toiletries, kitchen items) are stocked and accessible Support move-in and move-out processes, including room inspections and inventory Enforce program policies and community agreements with a restorative, youth-centered approach Respond to after-hours emergencies and maintain on-call availability Ensure compliance with fire safety, health codes, and program standards

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work preferred, or commensurate experience.
Minimum 5 years of experience working with youth experiencing homelessness, trauma, mental health challenges, or substance use
Strong understanding of trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and youth development principles
Ability to de-escalate crises calmly and effectively
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Flexibility to work non-traditional hours including evenings, weekends, and on-call shifts
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
Ability to pass background check and meet AYA's hiring requirements
Willingness and ability to live on-site in provided apartment

Nice To Haves

Experience with restorative practices and conflict mediation
Lived experience with homelessness, foster care, or systems involvement
Bilingual/multilingual skills
CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Training in Mental Health First Aid, crisis intervention, or motivational interviewing