Youth Support Specialist - New Castle

TITLE: Youth Support Specialist

LOCATION: New Castle, IN

POSITION SUMMARY (Direct Care Worker)
A youth support specialist is responsible for meeting the basic needs of all residents placed under their direct care and supervision. This position requires the ability to develop professional relationships with residents while demonstrating a genuine concern for, understanding of, and willingness to help the resident with their treatment needs. A youth support specialist is able to provide structure through the implementation of a daily schedule and remains fair and consistent in their daily interactions with residents.

PRIMARY JOB EXPECTATIONS

• Provides appropriate supervision of residents in their care
• Connects with residents as a role model and ensures immediate needs are met
• Provides positive reinforcement while redirecting and mentoring
• Responds to crisis situations appropriately
• Adheres to all policies and procedures set forth by YOC including personnel, operational, and transportation
• Monitors resident progress and documents accordingly
• Completes daily documentation with attention to detail

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE NEEDED
Must have a high school diploma or equivalency. Must be 21 years of age

FUNDAMENTAL QUALIFICATION
Must be able to demonstrate awareness of the cultural and socioeconomic differences of our clients as well as value a nurturing family as the ideal environment; a commitment to empowering others to solve their own problems and a conviction about the capacity of people to grow and change; the ability to establish a respectful relationship with persons served to help them gain skills and confidence by maintaining a helping role and appropriately intervening to meet service goals; the ability to set appropriate limits.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS NEEDED
• Ability to be consistent, fair, and structured while building relationships
• Willingness to take on new challenges and be creative
• Positive Role Model
• Must be adaptable and flexible in dealing with a variety of people and situations
• Ability to communicate clearly with a wide range of people including a variety of internal and external constituents
• Able to identify problems and resolve them in a timely and appropriate manner

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None

WORKING CONDITIONS
Typical work week is 40 hours for full time staff, 16-32 hours per week for part time staff. Scheduled days and times will vary depending on department and shift assigned. Position requires additional hours when necessary to maintain the safety and security of campus. Youth support specialists will have regular contact with their immediate supervisor and clinical staff. Direct contact with placing agencies and families of residents by phone and in person is a function of this position. Courtesy and professionalism are expected at all times.

COMPENSATION
This position is full-time or part-time, and compensation includes a competitive hourly rate and benefits plan (full-time only).