Youth Care Specialist

Youth Opportunity Investments, LLC•Rockwood, TN

27d•$19•Onsite

About The Position

Youth Opportunity Investments is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Roane Youth Academy in Rockwood, Tennessee, provides trauma-informed residential care in a structured, supportive environment focused on safety, accountability, and positive youth development. The program combines clinical support, education, life-skills development, and structured daily routines to help youth build internal controls, responsibility, and readiness for successful reintegration into their communities. Programming is delivered within small group living units that emphasize consistency, teamwork, and individualized growth. The Youth Care Specialist is a direct-care position responsible for supervising and supporting a group of 7–10 youth during waking and non-waking hours. While ensuring safety and security through appropriate external controls, Youth Care Specialists play a critical role in teaching youth the internal skills needed to live responsibly as structure is gradually reduced. This role is ideal for individuals who are compassionate, consistent, and confident in guiding youth through structure, accountability, and positive behavior change.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Two years of experience working with youth preferred for candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent
Strong verbal communication skills appropriate for working with youth
Group leadership and counseling skills
Ability to think independently, analyze situations, and distinguish fact from opinion
Ability to complete accurate, objective written documentation
First Aid, CPR, and crisis intervention certification required (obtained during probationary period)
Valid state driver’s license
Ability to meet all state and criminal background check requirements
Must be in good physical health and emotionally stable
Able to actively engage with youth, participate in physical interventions, and transport youth or staff as needed
Must be free of communicable diseases as defined by the state
Must pass evaluation of physical techniques and certification exams

Nice To Haves

Two years of college coursework in a social or human services field preferred

Responsibilities

Supervise the daily activities of a group of youth, maintaining awareness of all group members at all times
Ensure compliance with procedures related to movement, physical security, contraband, head counts, and reporting
Provide a safe and structured environment using group counseling techniques, positive discipline, and the I-Choose behavior modification system
Utilize crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques as needed to maintain safety
Represent youth needs, progress, and accomplishments to the treatment team or assigned counselor
Facilitate huddles, problem-solving groups, and daily reviews that encourage peer accountability and recognition
Assist classroom teachers by reinforcing educational content and study skills within the living units
Support and promote activity planning, completion, and evaluation to enhance treatment goals
Document daily shift activity, population counts, and significant events in accordance with policy
Make referrals for medical or special needs and provide thorough shift hand-offs
Participate in required training and professional development
Report any incidents or concerns related to youth or staff conduct
Perform other duties as assigned