FSRI - Behavioral Specialist - Relief, South County Academy

Position Summary

To provide guidance, support, and supervision to adolescents ages 13-18 in both school and residential settings. Implement and maintain Trauma Systems Therapy (TST) and other evidence‑based models of treatment. Assist each student in making decisions about daily life, conduct and discipline within the agency’s policies and the contractual agreement with the Department of Children, Youth and Families. Facilitate and engage youth in programming including arts & crafts, sporting activities, horticultural groups, life‑skills groups, and more.

Promote safety, well‑being, self‑expression, learning, and positive decision‑making in the classroom, residential dorm, and recreational activities.

• Bachelor’s degree in a social work‑related field or significant residential experience required.
• ABA certification is preferred but not required; willingness to obtain ABA certification is a plus.
• Willingness and capability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled.
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural, ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic issues. Ability to implement child‑management techniques, which may include passive physical restraint.
• Excellent communication skills and a team‑oriented mindset.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, proof of automobile insurance, registration, inspection, and driving record required.
• May be scheduled for shifts of fewer than three hours per day or for staff meetings, as agreed in advance.
• Bilingual/ASL skills are compensated by an additional 6% above base pay.
• Multilingual skills are compensated by an additional 8% above base pay.

This position requires community visits. Employees must be able to:

• Travel between community locations, FSRI main sites, and the school/residential location, which may include walkways, stairs, and/or elevators.
• Lift up to 20 lbs.
• Push or pull at least 10 lbs.
• Perform restraint techniques if needed and work with physically aggressive students.

Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and work‑life benefits.

Family Service of Rhode Island (FSRI) is a statewide organization with a 130‑year track record of improving the health and well‑being of children and families. FSRI delivers services statewide and currently operates in Providence, East Providence, Smithfield, and North Smithfield.

FSRI provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.