Youth Treatment Specialist (Full-Time) | Transitional Living Program

Wedgwood Christian Services • Grand Rapids, MI

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Wedgwood Christian Services is seeking a Youth Treatment Specialist to provide direct care within their residential transitional living program, serving adolescents aged 15-18. This role involves supporting youth who may have experienced inconsistent support or stability, by acting as a stable, caring adult. The specialist will help youth build resilience, practice emotional regulation, and envision a future beyond trauma. The position is ideal for individuals passionate about building life skills, trauma-informed care, youth advocacy, and therapeutic mentorship.

Requirements

• At least 20 years of age
• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and safely perform physical interventions when necessary
• Alignment with Wedgwood's Statement of Faith, vision and values

Nice To Haves

• Social Work (BSW in progress or completed)
• Psychology
• Counseling
• Human Services
• Child Development
• Criminal Justice (youth focus)
• Behavioral Health or related field
• Residential treatment (adolescents or adults)
• Behavioral health or mental health settings
• Juvenile justice or youth-serving programs
• Crisis intervention or trauma-informed environments
• Group homes, inpatient, or community mental health

Responsibilities

• Implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with therapists and case managers
• Create and maintain a safe, therapeutic environment grounded in the Sanctuary Model® (safety, emotional intelligence, open communication, and social learning)
• Build consistent, mentoring relationships using trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches
• Utilize verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to support behavioral regulation
• Model and teach healthy communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills
• Support youth in developing life skills, self-worth, and positive identity formation
• Engage in structured recreational and skill-building activities
• Administer medications as assigned and support physical wellness routines
• Document and maintain accurate records in alignment with behavioral health standards
• Transport residents to appointments, school, court, or community activities as needed

Benefits

• 403(b) with employer match
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Free supplemental virtual PCP care with medical plan
• Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employer-paid short- and long-term disability
• Life insurance (up to 2x salary)
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Insurance
• On-site gymnasium & 24-hour wellness center
• Tuition discounts through community partnerships
• Employee Assistance Program
• Beautiful on-campus walking trail
• Generous PTO package
• Time-and-a-half pay for hours worked on holidays
• Employer-paid training and re-certification

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED