Youth Support Advocate
About The Position
The Youth Support Advocate (YSA) provides direct care, supervision, and support to children residing in an EEC-funded emergency shelter. Working under Program Leadership, the YSA helps ensure the safety, well-being, and positive development of children experiencing crisis. The position calls for a compassionate, patient, and energetic professional committed to trauma-informed care. The role is part time, scheduled Sunday 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Tuesday 1 a.m.–9 a.m., and Wednesday 1 a.m.–9 a.m., for 28 hours per week. Compensation is $20.60 per hour. Staff are not authorized to use physical restraint; safety is maintained through de-escalation and trauma-informed practices.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- At least 1 year of experience working with children or vulnerable youth in residential, foster care, emergency settings, or similar environments.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care and child development.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain calm and respond effectively in crisis situations.
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule.
- Ability to complete required CPR, First Aid, and SafetyCare trainings.
- Successful completion of background checks required by EEC.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and participate in activities.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds as needed.
- High emotional awareness and resilience for crisis-related work.
Responsibilities
- Provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for children in care.
- Maintain required staff-to-child ratios in accordance with EEC guidelines.
- Build positive, supportive relationships with children and serve as a role model.
- Supervise children at all times to ensure safety and program compliance.
- Support activities of daily living, including hygiene, meals, and routines.
- Facilitate social, recreational, and life skills development.
- Complete intake and discharge documentation accurately.
- Administer and document medications in accordance with agency policy, as applicable.
- Respond effectively to crises, including medical emergencies.
- Maintain accurate records and uphold strict confidentiality standards.
- Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development.
- Follow organizational policies and regulatory requirements, including EEC and DCF requirements.
- Complete routine household tasks, such as cleaning and organizing.
- Maintain required certifications, including CPR, First Aid, and SafetyCare.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Health Savings Account (HSA).
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA and Dependent Care).
- Employer-paid life insurance.
- Employer-paid long-term disability.
- Free virtual medical, mental health, therapy, and psychiatry services.
- Musculoskeletal Support Program.
- Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel.
- 403(b) retirement plan.
- Student loan repayment assistance.
- Tuition remission opportunities.
- Professional development and career growth.
- Vacation, personal, and sick time.
- Up to 11 paid holidays.
- Pet insurance.
- Accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity coverage.
- BJ's Wholesale Club membership discounts.
- Personal auto and home insurance support.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
