Specialist - Program Support

Friends of Youth•Kirkland, WA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Specialist – Program Support is a flexible, multi-site role providing direct care coverage across residential programs at Friends of Youth’s Kirkland-based campuses. The position fills scheduling gaps and supports continuity of care, safety, and services across multiple campuses. The schedule varies according to program needs and requires flexibility, adaptability, strong communication, and the ability to integrate quickly into different program teams. The Specialist helps maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment for young people experiencing homelessness, using a caring and non-judgmental approach. The role supports shelter services for minors and young adults at Youth Haven, Willows Youth Services Center (WYSC), and Bridge Pointe. Duties include promoting safety and wellbeing, engaging clients, supervising and monitoring activities, supporting daily program operations, and maintaining accurate records and communications. The position is hourly, non-exempt, union-represented, and reports to the Program Supervisor. Starting salary is $24.00; the stated salary cap is $32.85 after annual increases, with the current cap reached at eight years.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 2 years of relevant work experience providing direct services to young adults.
At least 6 months of full-time experience providing direct services to youth in a work or volunteer capacity.
At least 2 years of experience with minors and/or young adults.
Strong proficiency in English.
Demonstrated knowledge of MS365 Power Platform.
Must be 21 years or older.
Must satisfactorily pass a criminal history check and a DCYF background check.
Must satisfactorily pass a tuberculosis (TB) test.
Must have reliable transportation and a Washington State driver’s license, or be able to obtain one by the date of employment.
Must have a safe driving record, as defined by Friends of Youth, if operating a personal or Friends of Youth vehicle on agency business.
Must complete a Food Handler’s Card, CPR, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens health certification requirements within 30 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

Maintain a safe living environment tailored to the needs of minors and young adults.
Model and teach age-appropriate self-regulation techniques, promote community and safety, and support conflict resolution.
Use preventative and de-escalation floor management techniques appropriate to clients’ needs and behaviors.
Monitor guest activities, including laundry and shower use, and help prevent and de-escalate conflicts.
Conduct internal and external facility walk-throughs and safety checks.
Listen and respond to clients’ individual concerns, provide personal attention, build positive relationships, and respect confidentiality and privacy.
Support the development of independent living skills and interact empathetically and without judgment, respecting developmental stages.
Conduct intake processes and refer clients to resources including case management, education, employment, housing, mental health, and substance use services.
Plan, supervise, and support activities that promote clients’ mental, physical, and social health, adjusting approaches for minors and young adults.
Ensure safe medication storage and dispensing in accordance with applicable protocols.
Assist with homework, work attainment, goal setting, and achievement.
Assist with meal preparation and service, cleaning, facility security, and administrative tasks.
Facilitate scheduled groups and activities.
Transport clients to appointments and outings as needed.
Maintain close supervision and awareness of clients’ whereabouts and activities.
Monitor clients’ health and behaviors, and promptly report concerns regarding abuse, exploitation, or neglect in accordance with mandated protocols.
Attend and actively contribute to weekly team meetings and participate in professional training.
Document behavioral events objectively and maintain daily communication logs.
Accurately record medication administration and financial disbursements.
Complete incident reports and other required documentation in compliance with agency policies, and provide consistent communication through accurate daily documentation.