Youth Specialist (FT Hrly)

Youth Specialist Residential Services Program Are you passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of youth? We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated individuals to join our Residential Services team as a Youth Specialist . In this role, you will help create a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for children and adolescents in a residential treatment setting while supporting their emotional, behavioral, and developmental growth. Position Summary The Youth Specialist works collaboratively with Residential Supervisors and clinical staff to support the daily operations of a Therapeutic Group Home. This position provides direct care, supervision, crisis intervention, behavior management, and recreational programming for youth in care. The ideal candidate is team-oriented, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and committed to helping youth thrive in a structured therapeutic environment. Key Responsibilities Provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive living environment for youth in care Implement treatment plans and therapeutic programming as part of daily activities Supervise residents and provide proactive behavioral interventions and crisis management Document resident behaviors, responses to care, and daily progress accurately and timely Participate in recreational, educational, and developmental activities with residents Administer medications as scheduled and prescribed in accordance with agency and DCF guidelines Respond appropriately to crisis situations, including the use of therapeutic restraints when necessary Maintain a clean, organized, and safe residential environment Collaborate with Residential Supervisors, clinical staff, schools, and treatment teams Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and agency meetings Follow all agency policies, procedures, and incident reporting protocols Qualifications High school diploma required; Associate degree preferred Minimum of 3-4 years of experience working with children and adolescents, or equivalent education and experience Strong crisis intervention and behavior management skills Ability to maintain professional boundaries and work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team Excellent verbal and written communication skills Understanding of childhood development, trauma-informed care, and cultural diversity preferred Working knowledge of the Greater Waterbury area preferred Bilingual Spanish/English candidates are encouraged to apply Required Certifications/Training Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain: CPR and First Aid Certification DCF Medication Administration Certification DCF-approved Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) Certification DCF Background History Check (CPA) Physical and PPD testing as required