Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist

Overview

Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist

Pay: $23.00-$24.92/hour

New Hire Sign-on Bonus: $4,000 paid 50% at 6 months and 50% at 12 months

Make a Meaningful Impact Every Day

Stetson School is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist to play a vital role in supporting youth in a structured, therapeutic residential setting. In this position, you will help create a safe, supportive, and growth-focused environment where students can build life skills, develop positive behaviors, and achieve personal success.

This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about working with youth, thrive in a team-oriented environment, and are committed to making a difference through consistency, leadership, and care.

Benefits for Full-time employees:

* Health Insurance:
Offered through Blue Cross Blue Shield, with generous company contribution.

* Enhanced Retirement Plan: 25% - 33% Employer match based on tenure.

* Student Loan Assistance:
Consolidation, counseling, & limited employer contribution!

* Discounted Tuition with College & University Partnerships!

* Tuition Assistance:
Reimbursed or prepaid college coursework!

* Home Mortgage Initiative:
Favorable down payment (3-5%), reduced closing costs co-paid by Seven Hills!

Work-Life Balance:

* Generous Accrued Paid Vacation: 3 weeks in your first year!

* Vacation Cash-Out Option

* 3 Paid Personal Days

* 11 Paid Holidays

* Accrued Paid Sick Time

Why Join Stetson School?

At Stetson School, you'll be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to transforming lives. You'll gain valuable experience, build meaningful connections, and contribute to a supportive environment where both students and staff can grow and succeed.

If you're ready to make a difference and take on a rewarding, hands-on role, we encourage you to apply.

You can also see an overview of the amazing work our organization does with this video:

https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Responsibilities

Student Care & Support

* Ensure all essential student needs are met each shift in accordance with program standards

* Model and reinforce positive behavioral, social, and daily living skills

* Support students' emotional growth, self-regulation, and social development using trauma-informed practices

* Maintain professional boundaries while building supportive, respectful relationships

Daily Structure & Supervision

* Provide continuous supervision to ensure student safety and engagement

* Maintain structured daily routines and ensure participation in scheduled activities

* Conduct regular room checks and monitor student whereabouts

* Transport students to appointments and approved activities as needed

Behavior Management

* Respond to student behavior using approved behavior management techniques, including CPI strategies

* Utilize de-escalation methods and apply interventions when necessary

* Process incidents with students and support learning and growth following behavioral challenges

Recreation & Skill Development

* Plan and lead structured recreational and skill-building activities

* Facilitate group programming and support clinical and social development goals

* Serve as a positive role model in all interactions and activities

Documentation & Reporting

* Complete all required documentation accurately and on time, including shift notes, incident reports, and behavioral tracking

* Maintain records related to assigned students, including progress reports and program documentation

Health, Safety & Environment

* Maintain a clean, safe, and organized living environment

* Support students in personal hygiene, housekeeping, and daily living tasks

* Administer medication as trained and directed

* Conduct safety checks, drills, and inspections as required

Shift Leadership

* Lead shift operations, ensuring routines and responsibilities are completed

* Mentor and support new staff members

* Serve as team-in-charge when assigned, including communication with supervisors and on-call staff

* Oversee program resources, including student funds and activity budgets

Skills & Attributes

* Strong interpersonal and communication skills

* Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations

* Commitment to teamwork, accountability, and professionalism

* Understanding of trauma-informed care and youth development principles

* Ability to balance structure, empathy, and consistency in a therapeutic setting

Qualifications

* High school diploma or equivalent required

* Bachelor's or Associate's degree in a human services-related field preferred

* 0-3 years of experience working with youth or in human services

* Valid driver's license required