Youth Interventionist Specialist

Union League Boys and Girls Club•Chicago, IL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Interventionist Specialist is responsible for planning, delivering, and supervising everyday programs and targeted intervention strategies for club members. Following the core mission of the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs, this role focuses heavily on three crucial pillars of development: Good Character and Citizenship, Academic Success, and Healthy Lifestyles. Unlike general staff, the Interventionist Specialist specifically supports youth exhibiting behavioral, emotional, or social challenges. They work proactively to de-escalate conflicts, implement Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS), and act as a constructive role model to help youth navigate adversity.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or GED required.
Proven experience working or volunteering with adolescents, particularly in an urban or under-resourced community environment.
Must pass a strict criminal background check and a drug screening.
Deep understanding of adolescent developmental milestones, group dynamics, and behavior management strategies.
Superior listening and communication skills; ability to deliver calm, timely feedback to children facing complex stresses (poverty, trauma, behavioral disorders).
Sound judgment under high-pressure scenarios.
Ability to troubleshoot a behavioral issue autonomously or loop in the Assistant Club Director when higher intervention is required.
Exemplary character, adaptability, integrity, and self-control, serving as a positive blueprint for both co-workers and club youth.
Must be able to maintain high energy levels while standing, walking, or leading activities for extended periods.
Willingness to assist in maintaining clean, organized program spaces at the conclusion of the day.
Ability to work flexible hours, including after-school times, weekends, or special club events (e.g., annual Gala, Youth of the Year awards).

Nice To Haves

Enrollment in or completion of college courses (ideally in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Public Administration, or Education) is highly preferred.
Experience with PBIS, restorative justice, or guided discipline is a major plus.

Responsibilities

Actively intervene in and de-escalate behavioral incidents, conflicts, or emotional crises among youth members using trauma-informed care practices.
Implement and monitor Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) program elements throughout daily club activities.
Lead peer mediation, conflict resolution circles, and mentoring initiatives for at-risk youth to foster accountability and emotional growth.
Maintain strict safety protocols, ensuring all youth understand club rules, boundaries, and behavioral expectations.
Provide high-energy, direct supervision of club youth members across program areas (gym, games room, classrooms, etc.).
Execute structured activities and curriculum designed to boost emotional resilience, social skills, and self-control.
Collaborate with Program Coordinators to ensure all instructional and therapeutic materials are prepared daily.
Serve as a chaperone for field trips and community outings, maintaining structured discipline outside club walls.
Maintain detailed case notes, behavioral incident logs, and attendance records.
Input relevant data into internal management systems.
Assist in creating and reviewing individualized growth plans for at-risk youth in consultation with leadership.
Serve as a connective resource between youth, families, schools, and community resources (social services, counseling, or legal systems if necessary).