As a Youth Development Specialist, you'll help keep our residential program running strong by providing attentive care and direct supervision for youth ages 10-17—so every shift supports safety, structure, and progress.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supervise and engage residents throughout program routines and activities
- Complete intake screening, phone response, crisis support, and clear written documentation
- Help plan/lead recreation and coordinate youth activities/events
- Support chores, behavior expectations, and daily team ratings
- Assist with meals, cleanliness, and reporting maintenance needs
- Support med ication self-administration and shift verification per program procedures
- Transport clients to approved community locations as needed.
You'll start onsite in Clearwater by getting briefed on the day's priorities, then step into a fast-moving rhythm: checking in with youth, keeping the environment calm and steady, and staying alert to what each moment needs. Between structured routines, you'll pivot to paperwork, quick calls, and coordinating the flow of the house. As the shift unfolds, you'll balance supportive conversation with clear boundaries, keep the space healthy and ready, and wrap up by ensuring notes are complete and the next team has what they need to hit the ground running.
Skills, Abilities and Other Requirements:
Must demonstrate awareness and acceptance of cultural differences of clients, staff, and community contacts. Must have the ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with individuals from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, including clients, staff, professional and community persons. Must demonstrate awareness and acceptance of clients related to sexual orientation and gender identity issues. Must possess excellent organizational skills, well developed verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to effectively deal with complex issues. Must maintain a high degree of professionalism and reliability within areas of responsibility. Should possess characteristics that show sound judgment in fulfilling position duties and responsibilities as well as a cooperative attitude in working relationships with senior members of management. Must have valid Florida Driver's License and auto insurance for personal vehicle and a clean driving history.
Education and Experience:
High school diploma or GED required. Two years general work experience with at least one-year full-time work in a direct contact role with youth at risk or an equivalent number of work hours in a part-time or volunteer direct contact role. An associate degree in behavioral science or related field may be substituted for two years of general work experience. Must demonstrate awareness, acceptance, and willingness to work with the LGBTQ population. Computer literacy and competency.
Physical Requirements:
The ability to lift 25 pounds occasionally. Frequent sitting, standing and/or walking. Frequent use of hands and fingers The ability to hear and respond quickly to sounds. Close, distance and peripheral vision Frequent driving This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
