Youth Care Specialist
About The Position
Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health services for youth. We are committed to providing trauma-informed care, structured support, and individualized services that help young people build stability, develop life skills, and prepare for their next steps. Our programs are designed to create safe, supportive, and highly structured environments where youth receive consistent guidance, education, behavioral health support, and opportunities for personal growth. Team members play an important role in helping youth develop positive coping skills, strengthen social and independent living skills, and work toward successful outcomes. At Youth Opportunity, we believe meaningful change happens through connection, consistency, and care. Every role contributes to creating an environment where youth feel supported, challenged, and encouraged as they move forward.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- 2 years of experience working with youth preferred (if no college coursework)
- Strong verbal communication skills; able to relate to youth in a professional, non-patronizing manner
- Group counseling and leadership skills
- Analytical thinking and sound judgment
- Certification in First Aid, CPR, and crisis intervention required during probationary period
- Ability to document clearly and objectively
- Valid driver’s license and safe driving record required
- Must meet state criminal background check requirements
Nice To Haves
- two years of college coursework in a social or human services field preferred
Responsibilities
- Supervise and monitor the activities of a group of youth, maintaining constant awareness of their whereabouts
- Ensure safety and security through adherence to procedures on movement, security, contraband, headcounts, and reporting
- Utilize group counseling techniques, individual relationships, positive discipline strategies, and crisis intervention when necessary
- Represent youth needs and progress to treatment teams and provide progress reports
- Facilitate daily meetings (“huddle-ups”) to encourage accountability and teamwork
- Support classroom teachers by reinforcing educational content in living units
- Encourage and support youth engagement in activities and programs that promote learning and personal growth
- Document daily shift activities and population counts, refer special needs or medical concerns, and communicate key events to incoming shifts
- Participate in required training and professional development
- Report incidents or concerns regarding youth or staff conduct
- Perform other duties as assigned or needed
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with immediate vesting
- Paid time off (PTO) and 7 paid holidays (earn 4 hours of PTO per pay period)
- Free RX delivery on most medications
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development
- Robust Employee Assistance Program
- Supportive, mission-driven work environment
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
