COMPANY OVERVIEW
More than a beautiful 75 acre campus, and beyond an accredited program or diplomas on office walls, the YOC is about people helping people. Not just in small ways, but in life changing ways. Since the early 90s, the YOC has provided a safe place for troubled children and families. Now, almost two decades later, hundreds of individuals have been helped by the over 450 YOC staff members who dedicate themselves each day to making a difference in a child's life. How does this happen? At the YOC, everyone brings their talents and gifts to the table, whether it's a winning smile, broad shoulders, strong backbone, helping hands or a heart for kids. We all know and believe in the mission of the YOC. And everyone has personally accepted the challenge to help those who are in crisis situations get back on their feet. A difficult task, but it can be accomplished together. Because if we can help save a child, then why couldn't that child save the family, the neighborhood, the community, the world.

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

1. Environmental Safety
• 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.

2. Program Implementation
• Understands and implements program philosophy and behavior modification programming
• Recognizes the needs of the population and implements creative incentives and consequences
• Assists in the development and implementation of resident treatment goals
• Monitors resident progress and documents accordingly
• Implements concepts learned through trainings such as TF-CBT and RAP
• Leads the daily schedule including planned activities, educational time, etc.

3. Documentation
• Completes daily documentation including case notes, points, and staff logs
• Completes crisis documentation with attention to detail
• Follows policies and procedures regarding medications and documents appropriately

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 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).
The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive; they represent essential functions qualifications necessary to perform the duties of the job successfully. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Youth Opportunity Center, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

THIS JOB DESCRIPTION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT