Youth Development Specialist I

Job Description

Job Description

Description : WHY WORK AT YFA?

We tackle some of the world's toughest problems. Our employees are an incredible group of compassionate, committed individuals, drawn by the opportunity to make a difference. Year after year, our employees report they are proud to work here and are willing to go above and beyond in service of our mission to create a safe, nurturing environment for children.

Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc. (YFA) a progressive not-for-profit organization of 350+ staff who are dedicated to working in partnership with communities and families to create a safe, nurturing environment for children and to lead the way in building a bridge for children to have a stable and loving family. This is why “Family” is our middle name! Established in 1970, YFA has been around for over 50 years, with services spanning seven counties across Florida.

No matter the role, we believe every team member at YFA has a critical role in supporting our children and our communities and we constantly strive to ensure a positive, purpose-driven, dynamic work environment for you to learn, grow and meet your fullest potential. If these values appeal to you and you would like to invest your time, energy, and talent in a cause that can make a difference in a child and family’s future, then we may have a place for you on our team!

Put your talents to use in a culture of care where you can make the world a better place.

POSITION SUMMARY : Entry-level direct care position responsible for the supervision of clients (10 to 17 years) in a residential program.

Specific job responsibilities and goals include but are not limited to :

• Entry-level Direct Care position responsible for the supervision of clients (10 to 17 years) in a residential program.
• Utilize the Youth Development System to identify development areas for each youth.
• Provide direct supervision for residents, including chore scheduling and teaching.
• Report unusual behavior and use crisis intervention techniques proactively.
• Maintain order and discipline among residents, assigning consequences and using Crisis Intervention techniques when trained.
• Lead group discussions and plan recreational activities aligned with development themes.
• Complete monitoring notes, runaway / incident reports, and client case records.
• Handle clerical aspects of intake process for new residents.

Requirements :

Education & Experience :

High School Diploma or GED required; AA preferred; 2+ years of direct work experience with adolescents preferred. Work experience in a Residential setting a plus. Florida driver’s license and clean DMV record required.

Physical Requirements :

Requires a high degree of physical activity including the ability to run, jump, bend, and stand for significant time periods (2+ hours), lift and carry 50+ pounds. The ability to travel on a regional basis as needed for training and transport.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

And of course, an opportunity to make the world a better place!

Youth and Family Advocates is committed to fostering a trauma informed workplace culture, to include a commitment to ensuring that employees interact with children, families, and each other in ways that promote healing, resiliency, and responsiveness to the impact of trauma in the lives of individuals.

Youth and Family Alternatives is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We adhere to the principles of affirmative action and strictly prohibit any form of discrimination or harassment based on these protected characteristics.

Youth and Family Alternatives complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, training, working conditions, compensation, benefits, and other privileges of employment.

Youth and Family Alternatives is committed to promoting a healthy and safe work environment, which is why we maintain a smoke-free workplace at all times. All forms tobacco or vaping products of any kind at any time on our premises. Smoking is prohibited in all indoor areas, as well as outdoor spaces. Individuals must leave our campus which includes our parking lots and other public areas, in order to smoke, vape, or use smokeless tobacco.