Youth Support Specialist

CJR•Litchfield, CT

13d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Support Specialist (Youth Mentor) provides flexible, on-call support to adolescents in a structured program setting. This role supports the youth's individualized treatment plans through therapeutic consistent role modeling. This position is ideal for those looking to contribute on a part-time, as needed basis while making a meaningful impact. Sensitivity to subjects such as mental health, suicide, and contraband is essential.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and experience working with at-risk or court-involved adolescents - Required
Excellent interpersonal skills
A valid driver’s license - Required
Flexible hours/weekends and evenings
Ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations
Strong communication and conflict resolution skills
Experience working with diverse populations or culturally responsive practices
Demonstrated understanding of adolescent development and mental health issues
Reliable transportation and flexibility to work varying shifts, including evenings and weekends

Responsibilities

Ensure the physical safety of youth, including conducting safety checks, routine counts, and bed checks, and providing crisis intervention as needed.
Respond promptly and effectively to behavioral, health, or safety emergencies, maintaining calm and professionalism.
Maintain proper physical and professional boundaries, fostering respectful relationships with youth.
Support youth with personal hygiene, self-care routines, and daily living skills.
Plan, lead, and facilitate organized daily activities, therapeutic groups, and programming such as Restorative Justice Practices and DBT-Lite.
Reinforce youth’s individual treatment and needs plans through role modeling and consistent support.
Interpret program goals and plans to youth and their families to promote understanding and engagement.
Complete all required documentation, reports, and incident reports accurately and timely.
Monitor youth during meals, snacks, recreational activities, and other scheduled events to promote safety and positive engagement.
Assist with transportation for youth and families, ensuring safety during travel.
Maintain certification in medication administration and oversee proper medication management for youth with health needs.
Be aware of and address the safety and needs of youth with physical or emotional disabilities or special needs.
Participate in team meetings, debriefings, and case discussions to coordinate care and share updates.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment, including tidying activity and living areas.
Respect youth confidentiality and privacy at all times.
Support youth in developing life skills, independence, and positive coping strategies.
Demonstrate flexibility in shift hours, including evenings and weekends, to ensure consistent support.
Attend regularly and maintain consistent presence to provide reliable care and supervision.

Benefits

Free daily nutritious meals
Low-cost Medical Insurance Plan option
Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance offered after 30 days of employment
Company Paid Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
Generous Paid Vacation Package (unused time eligible for carry over)
Generous Paid Sick Time (unused time eligible for carry over)
Paid Holiday Time (separate from vacation time)
Floating Holidays (separate from paid vacation time and paid holiday time)
Annual monetary incentives
Tuition Assistance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match
Career Growth Opportunities
Company Celebrations & Employee Recognition Program
Employee discounts (cell phone, computer)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Qualified Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employer Federal Student Aid
10%-20% tuition discount at many local educational institutions, including those listed by the CT Nonprofit Alliance