Youth Care Specialist

Youth Care Specialist Be the steady hand. Be the safe space. Be the difference.

Do you believe every young person deserves someone who sees their strength before their struggle?

Are you energized by mentoring, guiding, and helping youth unlock their potential?

We’re looking for a compassionate, resilient, and purpose-driven Youth Care Specialist to walk alongside young people as they build confidence, life skills, and brighter futures.

What You’ll DoAs a Youth Care Specialist, you are more than staff — you are a mentor, coach, advocate, and role model.

You will:
Engage & Inspire – Build meaningful connections that empower youth to explore their goals and discover their strengths.

Implement Individualized Plans – Support youth-centered, strengths-based programming that helps residents transition to less restrictive settings.

Practice Trauma-Informed Care – Use thoughtful language and approaches that promote healing, dignity, and growth.️ Teach Life Skills – Facilitate group training in hygiene, self-care, community resources, and independent living skills.

Provide Transportation – Safely transport youth to appointments, activities, and programming (local travel required; personal vehicle use expected).Document with Purpose – Complete accurate electronic health record (EHR) documentation and reports.️ Prepare Meals & Daily Support – Help create a stable, nurturing daily routine.

Collaborate with Team Members – Participate in meetings, shift transitions, supervision, and ongoing training.️ Ensure Safety – Maintain awareness of youth whereabouts and create a safe, structured environment at all times.

Who You Are You are:

Trauma-informed and equity-minded

Skilled in LGBTQ+ and racial equity practices

Patient, adaptable, and solution-focused

Comfortable facilitating group activities

Strong in interpersonal communication

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite Calm and confident in high-stress environments

Work Environment This role operates in a professional residential setting, which may include shelters, group homes, or detention facilities serving youth ages 0–24.This position is:

On-site (no remote option)
Considered essential

Physically active and demanding

Exposed to potentially high-stress situations

You must be comfortable with:

Standing, walking, bending, and lifting 50+ lbs regularly

Working evenings, weekends, holidays, or overnight shifts as needed

Exposure to challenging behaviors and crisis situations

Qualifications

Required:

High School Diploma or GEDCPR/First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain)
Preferred:

Bachelor’s degree1+ year experience working with youth

Background or coursework in education, social work, or psychology

Why This Role Matters You will be the person who:

Helps a young person regain control after a crisis

Teaches life skills that change someone’s future

Models healthy communication and problem-solving

Provides stability when life feels uncertain

This is not just a job.

It’s an opportunity to transform lives — including your own.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are passionate about youth advocacy, believe in second chances, and thrive in meaningful, hands-on work, we encourage you to apply.

Join us in helping youth reach their full potential — one connection at a time.

Why Work with Lighthouse Youth & Family Services:

Rewarding career - make a difference in the lives of youth!

Work for a diverse, seasoned, and well-respected agency with engaged leadership team Recovery Friendly Workplace Ability to work remotely for some roles.

Competitive pay based on licensure/education.

Generous Paid Time Off (23 days prorated based on hire date) and Other Paid Leave Options (Holidays, FMLA, Bereavement and Parental Leave)
Medical, dental, vision, including company paid life and long-term disability insurance.
401k Retirement Plan including company match (up to 6%)Tuition Reimbursement and Student Loan Reimbursement Benefit Department of Education’s Loan Forgiveness Program Employee Assistance Program Engaging Wellness Program Referral Bonus Program Licensure renewal reimbursement; paid training and professional development opportunities

Ability to obtain internal supervision towards increased licensure.

Paid assistance with obtaining Trauma-Informed Care certification.

Business casual/casual dress
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