Youth Development Specialist

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 that 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.

Entry‑level direct care position responsible for the supervision of clients (10 to 17 years) in a residential program. This tiered position ranges from Tier 1 ($19) to Tier 3 ($23) based on program needs, skills and experience.

• Supervise 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.

Education & Experience:

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

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, and travel on a regional basis as needed for training and transport.

• 13 days of PTO, increasing annually
• 13 paid holidays
• 5 days parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Short‑term disability and long‑term disability
• Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance
• Paid life insurance
• Legal services
• Pet insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Immediate eligibility for 403(b) savings plan with match after 12 months
• Continuous training and professional development opportunities

Seniority level:
Entry level

Employment type:

Full‑time

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, and local laws. We adhere to the principles of affirmative action and strictly prohibit any form of discrimination or harassment based on these protected characteristics.

We comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment and are committed to fostering a trauma‑informed workplace culture.

Lakeland, FL $31,200.00 – $42,000.00