Youth Development Specialist

About This Role

This role involves overseeing daily shift functions in a residential setting, directly supervising residents, and ensuring their safety and well-being. The specialist will utilize a Youth Development System to identify developmental areas for youth, provide training to new staff, and maintain a safe and clean environment.

Responsibilities

• Act as a shift lead responsible for overseeing the functioning of an assigned shift within a residential setting
• Provide support to other Youth Development Specialists (YDS) during staff meetings
• Oversee and directly perform daily tasks and activities
• Assess and react to potential critical situations on shift, utilizing on-call support and consulting with the Residential Director as needed
• Ensure completion of required documentation during each shift
• Utilize the Youth Development System to identify key development areas for youth in coordination with Shelter Counselors and Residential Supervisor
• Assume on-call responsibility during supervisory absence or vacancy as needed
• Provide shadow opportunities and training to new staff
• Provide direct supervision for residents, including scheduling chores, actively demonstrating tasks, and working with residents to complete assignments
• Ensure shelter and property are clean, neat, and safe for residents, and perform related cleaning tasks
• Monitor residents’ behavior and report any unusual behavior
• Utilize crisis intervention techniques proactively to address potential conflict and prevent escalation of behaviors
• Maintain good order and discipline among residents, assigning appropriate consequences and employing acceptable crisis intervention techniques
• Monitor residents’ whereabouts to ensure they stay on property, notifying law enforcement and guardians if they leave without authorization
• Lead group discussions with residents as outlined in the Youth Development System
• Plan and participate in recreational activities for residents that align with developmental themes
• Complete monitoring notes, runaway and incident reports, and client case records for residents
• Complete clerical aspects of intake process for new residents
• Transport residents as required and directed by program leadership, if over 21 with appropriate clearance
• Create a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families, and colleagues, promoting emotional and physical security
• Follow a trauma-informed approach, demonstrating sensitivity to individual needs and experiences
• Practice self-care and seek support to prevent burnout when providing trauma-informed care
• Adhere to agency policies, procedures, and core values and mission statement

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent
• 3+ years of direct work experience with adolescents
• Work experience in a residential setting
• Florida driver’s license with a clean DMV record

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent. Associate’s degree preferred.
• 3+ years of direct work experience with adolescents. Work experience in a residential setting.

Nice to Have

• Associate’s degree
• Knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed principles and practices

Benefits