Youth Engagement Specialist 3P - 11P

Covenant House Texas•Houston, TX

21h•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Engagement Specialist is responsible for providing direct support and intervention to at-risk youth, engaging them in programming, and ensuring their safety and well-being. This role requires a commitment to trauma-informed care and a strengths-based approach, with the goal of helping youth achieve successful outcomes. The specialist will work closely with a team to plan and implement engagement activities, document youth progress, and collaborate with community partners. A key aspect of the role is building rapport and providing consistent, supportive presence in the lives of young people, especially during challenging times.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
Basic computer skills
Must be able to effectively communicate orally and in writing
Basic understanding of adolescent development and behaviors
Demonstrate enjoyment of and ability to relate to at-risk youth and exhibit empathy with the joys and pains of others
Self-motivation, initiative, sound judgment, and commitment to ongoing learning are essential
Must be dependable and able to report to work promptly and work a flexible schedule outside normal business hours, including weekends and holidays
Is approachable, builds rapport well, and practices attentive and active listening
Supports equal and fair treatment and opportunity for all
Understand and comply with all Agency policies and procedures, including Child Protection Policies
Ability to address conflict well and manage difficult youth in a supportive and non-threatening manner
Ability to respond quickly and safely and serve as a settling influence in crises and emergencies
Ability to work and relate to diverse groups with people of varied cultural backgrounds and tolerate differences in behavior
Understand, comply with, and implement Trauma-Informed Care concepts and a Strengths-Based Approach
Proficient with computer operating systems and programs
Current (valid) license and successful pass of federal, local, and state background checks required
Must be able to perform the physical activities and mental abilities of the job with or without accommodation

Nice To Haves

Further education in Human Services, Social Work, or Psychology preferred

Responsibilities

Provide face-to-face support and intervention in multiple settings including the Youth Engagement Center, Safe Haven, or Rights of Passage.
Assist in documentation for youth files, ETO reporting, and help youth accomplish plan outcomes or goals.
Develop collaborative relationships with other community partners for youth support.
Engage youth in appropriate educational, vocational, and life-skill programming.
Plan, implement, and support engagement activities facilitated by internal staff and external partners.
Ensure the safety and whereabouts of youth and security of buildings and property.
Perform intakes, discharges, answer phones, and assist in the operating and basic needs of the youth in the programs.
Provide specific trauma-informed services to assist youth in successful outcomes.
Relentlessly show up and be present in young people’s lives, especially through times of relapse and crisis.
Commit to engaging in personal and professional growth and competence development, and participate in organization training activities.
Keep the supervisor fully informed at all times.
Participate in the team, shift change, and staff meetings.
Interview youth and enter data into various reporting systems.
Perform other duties/responsibilities or special projects as necessary by supervisor.