Lead Youth Care Specialist

About Thompson

Thompson, founded in 1886 as an orphanage, has grown into an organization operating across the Carolinas, Florida, Tennessee and Kentucky. Our continuum of care encompasses three domains: prevention, mental health services and foster care. All programs are trauma‐informed and evidence‐based, building resilience in clients (ages 0‑18) and their families, both virtually and in person. Our values are Excellence, Innovation, Commitment, Caring and Integrity.

As a Lead Youth Care Specialist, you will provide operational oversight, coaching, and coordination across transitional housing sites in Tennessee, supporting Program Supervisors and Youth Care Specialists (YCS).

• Support regular check‑ins with YCS to provide coaching, feedback, and support.
• Assist with onboarding new staff, including training coordination, badge setup, and documentation.
• Serve as a point of contact for YCS staff when Program Supervisors are off‑site.
• Monitor daily operations across assigned sites, ensuring adequate staffing and shift coverage.
• Ensure accurate documentation of youth interactions, shift notes, and incident reports.
• Assist in preparing audits and ensure documentation meets DCS and internal standards.
• Monitor adherence to trauma‑informed care principles and contract goals.
• Collaborate with Program Supervisors and DCS Program Coordinators to align staffing and service delivery.
• Participate in team meetings, hiring panels, and tactical planning sessions.
• Relay feedback and concerns from YCS staff to leadership for resolution and improvement.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Starting Pay Range: $22.00 - $23.00 hourly based on experience.
• Full‑time benefits package.
• Three weeks paid time off (PTO) in the first year plus 10 paid holidays.
• Health, dental, vision, short‑term and long‑term disability, and life insurance options.
• 401(k) match.
• Education reimbursement.
• Eligibility to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness after 10 years of service.
• Paid time off for community volunteering.
• Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services.
• Mileage reimbursement if applicable.
• iPhone and laptop provided.
• Multiple opportunities for growth.

• Valid driver’s license.
• Meet any credentialing, licensing and privileging standards as it pertains to the program(s) they lead.
• High school diploma required.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in a residential youth operation or related child and family services.
• Familiarity with trauma‑informed care, child development, and crisis intervention.
• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work flexible 8‑hour shifts, including days, nights, and weekends.

• Passion for working with and developing youth.
• Desire to make an impact on the lives of others.
• Commitment to Excellence, Innovation, Commitment, Caring, and Integrity.

Thompson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Thompson participates in E‑Verify.