Youth Advocate (3 p.m. - 11 p.m.)

Ouachita Children's Center•Hot Springs, AR

140d

About The Position

The Youth Advocate is responsible for the daily care, supervision, interaction, and treatment of shelter residents. The role provides advocacy and mentorship while helping residents follow shelter rules, develop positive behaviors, and work through challenges. Youth Advocates may support residents with academic needs, life skills, activities, transportation, meals, and medication administration as assigned. The position is full-time with open availability for the 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. shift.

Requirements

High school education or GED.
Demonstrated ability to work with troubled youth.
Pass a physical examination and have a current TB health card.
Hold a current Arkansas driver’s license and have an excellent driving record.
Display leadership skills.
Be competent in assessing clients’ needs.
Practice and model conflict-resolution skills.
Model accountability, respect, and trust with clients and staff.
Ability to work as a team member.
Follow the OCC code of ethics.
Ability to collect and analyze data to improve program outcomes.
Demonstrate cultural sensitivity to OCC clients, families, and their socioeconomic characteristics.

Nice To Haves

At least six months of experience in residential care of children is preferred.

Responsibilities

Supervise residents’ daily care while modeling advocacy and mentorship.
Model and teach accountability, respect, trust, and appropriate behavior related to shelter rules and guidelines.
Restrain youth when necessary, subject to required Handle With Care training and applicable policy guidelines for seclusion and restraint.
Assist with transporting residents as needed to carry out their case plans.
Supervise ACT2, enrichment activities, visitation, meals, and chores.
Document residents’ behavior at the end of each shift by submitting shift notes in the electronic medical record; complete incident reports when applicable.
Complete incident report forms as required.
Participate in staff meetings and training as required.
Prepare meals as needed in accordance with planned menus and maintain records for the National School Lunch Program, including Point of Service.
Follow OCC medication administration policies and procedures when designated as the medication administrator for a shift.
Offer active listening and support during crises or difficult moments.
Help residents with homework or academic needs and encourage goal setting.
Teach skills such as time management, conflict resolution, and personal hygiene.
Lead physical, creative, or social activities that encourage teamwork and health.
Perform designated client headcounts at 15-minute intervals.
Perform other duties as assigned.