Youth Advocate - Multiple Shifts

Volunteers Of America, Utah • Salt Lake City, UT

22d

About The Position

The Youth Advocate supports homeless and at-risk youth ages 15–22 as they work toward stability, self-sufficiency, and independence. Support includes shelter, basic needs, referrals, resources, and individualized case plans. The role engages youth in empowering conversations and case planning, helps them access emergency shelter, and promotes positive choices and stability.

The position helps maintain a safe, supportive environment; responds to medical emergencies and provides CPR/First Aid as needed; assists clients and visitors; and manages difficult behaviors using a trauma-informed approach. The Youth Advocate maintains confidential, accurate program documentation, uses agency vehicles for errands and client transportation when necessary, and works professionally with clients, coworkers, supervisors, and community partners.

This is a 40-hour-per-week full-time position. Grave, swing, and day shifts are available, and some shifts include weekends.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent and two years of social services or youth-related experience; at-risk youth experience is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, experience, and training may also qualify.
• Ability to use a computer, phone, and copy machine.
• Ability to interact professionally with a diverse workforce, clients, and the public.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and respond flexibly to changes.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds.
• Ability to remain moving and active and interact with clients for extended periods.
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Current driver's license and good driving record.
• Must pass the Utah DHHS background check for work with vulnerable populations.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug test.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with at-risk youth.

Responsibilities

• Engage youth in case plans and conversations to empower them to identify and make positive choices toward stability, and assist them in accessing emergency shelter.
• Ensure a safe environment for staff, volunteers, and clients; assess medical emergencies and provide CPR/First Aid as needed.
• Answer phones, greet clients, volunteers, donors, and other visitors professionally, and provide assistance as needed.
• Attend regular staff meetings, shift-change meetings, and scheduled one-on-one meetings with the supervisor.
• Use the onsite supervisor through the on-call system for guidance and support, and follow protocol for covering shifts when needed.
• Manage difficult client behaviors by encouraging adherence to service expectations through a trauma-informed lens.
• Complete, manage confidentially, and store paperwork related to client and program activities in accordance with licensing and contract requirements.
• Use agency vehicles for errands and safe client transportation when necessary.
• Maintain professional boundaries with clients.
• Attend work punctually and on a regular and predictable basis.
• Complete interior and exterior building rounds and perimeter checks.
• Submit paperwork promptly and record important notes in the shift-change log or HMIS.
• Prepare meals as necessary.
• Maintain the cleanliness of shared workspaces, the facility, vehicles, and center laundry.
• Assist other shifts with waking clients or getting them to bed as necessary.
• Maintain positive, professional interactions with community resources and partners, including other program staff, emergency services, law enforcement, criminal justice personnel, community providers, clients' family members, donors, support groups, and referral sources.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with coworkers and supervisory staff.
• Perform other functions as necessary or assigned.

Benefits

• Low-cost medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Health savings account, including an employer contribution paid quarterly.
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 50% employer match up to 3%.
• Employee Assistance Program for all employees.
• 33 paid days off to start: 11 observed paid holidays, 12 sick days, and 10 vacation days.
• Vacation increases to 12 days after one year, 15 days after two years, and more at five and nine years of service.
• Sick and vacation time accrue hourly per pay period.
• $50,000 in employer-paid life insurance, with additional coverage available.
• Employee Referral Program with cash bonuses and paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED