Lead Youth Specialist

Lead with Purpose. Empower Youth. Transform Lives.

Do you have a passion for helping youth succeed? Join Samaritas Nation as a Lead Youth Specialist and take on a rewarding leadership role supporting adolescents as they transition from foster care to independent living in our Staff Supported Housing program.

• Coordinate schedules and training for Independent Living Plus Youth Specialists.
• Provide coverage for shifts when needed and maintain awareness of house operations.
• Serve as a mentor and role model for youth, guiding them in daily living skills and fostering independence.
• Collaborate with program managers on performance management and corrective actions.
• Participate in treatment planning and ensure safety and well‑being in the home.
• Create and maintain schedules of ILP Youth Specialists in Staff Supported Housing.
• Provide coverage for 2nd or 3rd shifts as needed when there are position vacancies and coverage cannot be coordinated with existing staff.
• Maintain adequate awareness of house operations, house needs, and any staffing issues.
• Collaborate and consult with Program Manager/Foster Care Supervisor to administer corrective actions, disciplinary steps, and performance management.
• Train new ILP Youth Specialists on job tasks and responsibilities.
• May provide direct supervision to ILP Youth Specialists.
• Serve as a role model to youth in residence by modeling responsible behaviors, as required.
• Provide guidance in daily living skills, including household chores to youth.
• Monitor activities of youth to ensure their safety and well‑being. Report non‑compliance with house rules to the Case Manager.
• Maintain communication with youth to ensure adjustment to program expectations.
• Participate in house meetings to review house rules, plan activities, or discuss other needs of house/group.
• Participate in treatment planning meetings with each youth as needed or requested.
• Communicate implementation of each youth’s Independent Living Plan with Independent Living Coach, Case Manager, and other appropriate parties.
• Report safety hazards and needed repairs within the home and grounds to designated Case Manager or Supervisor. Contact Landlord for urgent needs.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in social services preferred.
• Professional training in social work, social services, or child development preferred.
• Experience working in a group home or residential setting preferred.
• Experience in supervisory role or child welfare setting preferred.
• Experience working with youth preferred.
• Bi‑lingual in Spanish (or the major language of the youth in care) preferred.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance.
• Ability to provide trauma‑informed care in high‑stress settings.

Pay: $20.00/hour

We’re a Michigan‑based human services organization rooted in compassion and transformation. When you join us, you join a mission‑driven team committed to creating ripples of positive change in the lives of those we serve.