Milieu Program Specialist - Canyon Oaks Youth Center; Department Promotional

The Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Division of San Mateo County Health is seeking experienced individuals for the position of Milieu Program Specialist
. Currently there is one regular full-time vacancy to fill at Canyon Oaks Youth Center (COYC) located at 400 Edmonds Road, Redwood City, CA, 94062.

The Milieu Program Specialist (MPS) serves as a key member of the COYC team, providing on‑site supervision to Relief Residential Counselors, coordinating training, and supporting administrative and operational functions. The MPS reports to the Milieu Program Supervisor and plays a critical role in maintaining a structured, safe and therapeutic residential environment.

Canyon Oaks Youth Center is a Short Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP) providing trauma‑informed, 24‑hour care to youth ages 12–18 who require intensive mental health services. COYC’s day treatment and residential programs focus on creating a safe, supportive environment that promotes healing and skill development, with the goal of successful reintegration into the community. Families are engaged active partners throughout the treatment process.

The ideal candidate will work a flexible schedule that may include daytime, swing or evening shifts and one weekend within a 40‑hour work week. Physical interventions are used only as a last resort to prevent serious injury or in situations requiring life‑saving measures. Residential staff are required to complete emergency intervention training, including written and physical hands‑on competency examinations, and maintain annual certification.

• A Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Sociology, Education, Counseling, Child Development or related fields.
• At least three years of experience supervising youth in a residential treatment setting, including one year in a lead capacity.
• Experience creating and sustaining milieu therapy environment for children/youth within an STRTP.
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed care principles and their application to adolescent behavior and development.
• Demonstrated ability to apply the Reasonable and Prudent Parenting Standard and the Foster Youth Bill of Rights in daily practice.
• Training and experience in managing assaultive behavior and implementing physical restraint interventions when necessary.
• Strong relationship‑building skills with staff, youth and families.
• A valid California Driver’s License or equivalent.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including daytime, swing, evening shifts, and one weekend within a 40‑hour work week.

• Foster a safe, welcoming, and therapeutic milieu that supports healing, structure, and positive youth engagement.
• Establish clear expectations and consistent routines to promote safety, trust, and treatment participation.
• Provide on‑site supervision, coaching, and training to staff using trauma‑informed, reflective, and strengths‑based approaches.
• Coordinate staff development activities, including scheduling, performance evaluations, feedback, corrective action, and participation in hiring.
• Develop staff schedules and assignments to ensure adequate coverage and continuity of care.
• Monitor program operations and facility needs, including vehicles and equipment, ensuring a safe and well‑maintained environment.
• Lead and facilitate staff meetings; communicate key operational updates and organizational priorities.
• Address daily operational challenges, mediate conflicts, and promote teamwork and collaboration.
• Oversee documentation and response to critical incidents in coordination with leadership.
• Process client and family grievances in accordance with policy.
  
  Track and support compliance with CARF and Community Care Licensing standards.
• Lead or support projects and initiatives that enhance program effectiveness.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Only current County of San Mateo employees in San Mateo County Health with at least six months (1040 hours) of continuous service in a classified regular, probationary, or extra‑help/limited term position prior to the final filing date may apply.

Education and Experience:

• Any combination of education and experience that…