Youth Specialist

Eaton County•Charlotte, MI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of a Shift Supervisor, the Youth Specialist supervises and cares for residents in the detention and/or treatment wings of the Youth Facility during an assigned shift. The role ensures residents meet personal conduct standards, oversees household and work assignments, ensures security and other policies are followed, and monitors resident movements throughout the facility. The Youth Specialist counsels youths, conducts crisis counseling, documents observations of their behavior, and participates in assessment meetings. The position supports residents’ physical and emotional needs, implements treatment programming, leads activities and group counseling, and helps coordinate healthcare. It also includes intake and discharge procedures, supervising chores and meal cleanup, preparing behavioral and operational reports, and transporting youths to medical and other appointments. The role may require physically restraining residents using approved methods.

Requirements

At least 30 semester credits of college-level coursework in a human services area.
One year of experience working with delinquent or emotionally troubled youth and/or families.
Valid Michigan Driver’s License and a good driving record.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a 24-hour facility.

Responsibilities

Ensure the safety and security of the Youth Facility and its occupants.
Provide constant supervision of youths and monitor their activities visually and with electronic monitors throughout the facility.
Prepare observation and status reports on youths’ behavior and progress, and document operational needs related to security, maintenance, and supplies.
Prepare incident and accident reports.
Ensure youths’ physical and emotional needs are met, including hygiene, nutrition, medical care, physical exercise, and emotional guidance.
Counsel youths regarding inappropriate behavior, suicidal thoughts, crisis situations, and related matters using approved methodologies.
Implement treatment programming, including behavior modification and the token economy system.
Award points, maintain records, and operate the store as part of the token economy system.
Lead youths in recreational and other activities.
Lead group counseling sessions on topics such as decision making, seeking employment, and behavioral issues.
Participate in staffings and team meetings and discuss observations of youth behavior.
Complete intake and discharge procedures, including forms, recording belongings, orientations, and providing clothing and personal items.
Supervise residents performing housekeeping chores, trash removal, laundry, and meal cleanup.
Listen empathetically and discuss concerns such as family problems, court hearings, homework, and interpersonal relationships with youths.
Report concerns regarding youths’ psychological or emotional well-being.
Assist with coordinating youth healthcare, including dispensing prescription and over-the-counter medications and reporting health concerns to appropriate individuals.
Transport youths by vehicle to medical and other appointments.
Use crisis intervention techniques and other approved methodologies to physically control and counsel residents as necessary.
Assist with delivering and serving food, cleaning designated areas, and other support tasks as assigned.