Youth Support Specialist - 2:30PM-10:30PM
About The Position
Avenues for Youth provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, rapid re-housing, collective housing, and host homes housing for youth and young families experiencing housing instability and homelessness. We strive to do that in a safe and nurturing environment through a social justice lens. Avenues seeks to partner with youth and young families while they define their experiences, life dreams and future. Our work takes into account historical trauma, systems of oppression, and intersectionality while being grounded in the power of resiliency, healing, and community. The Youth Support Specialist provides direct support to youth in a structured, safe, and supportive environment. This role focuses on building positive relationships, supporting daily routines, and helping youth develop the skills needed for long-term stability and independence. This is a fully onsite, hands-on role working closely with youth.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience
- Experience working with youth or in human services preferred
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Must be at least 24 years of age
- Strong relationship-building and rapport-building skills with diverse youth populations.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Active listening and conflict resolution skills.
- Ability to de-escalate challenging situations while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor.
- Strong observational skills to recognize changes in youth behavior, safety concerns, or program needs.
- Accurate documentation and recordkeeping skills.
- Time management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities during a shift.
- Teamwork and collaboration skills, including effective shift-to-shift communication.
- Basic computer skills, including proficiency with email, documentation systems, and Microsoft Office or similar software.
- Ability to establish trust while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
- Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during crises or emergencies.
- Ability to work effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to adapt to changing situations and shifting program priorities.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing effectively as part of a team.
- Ability to encourage, motivate, and support youth in achieving personal goals and developing independent living skills.
- Ability to successfully complete a background check, including a Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) background study.
Responsibilities
- Build positive, professional relationships with youth
- Provide mentoring and support with routines, meals, and independent living skills
- De-escalate conflicts and maintain a safe environment
- Support youth in developing life skills and daily structure
- Maintain a safe and structured environment
- Complete room checks and follow shift expectations
- Answer phones and manage building access
- Support daily operations and program routines
- Encourage youth participation in chores and community expectations
- Complete documentation accurately and promptly
- Provide clear shift updates to team members
- Maintain professional communication with staff and leadership
Benefits
- health insurance with strong employer contribution
- Employer-paid dental, life, AD&D, and disability coverage
- Generous PTO and paid holidays
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Staff appreciation events
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
