Engagement Specialist - URM

This is a bargaining unit position represented by the OPEIU. All terms and conditions of employment are subject to change in accordance with a collective bargaining agreement.

Under the supervision of the Program Supervisor, the Engagement Specialist is responsible for the daily management of the program site. All housing programs are open 24/7 and per agency licensing requirements, programs must maintain safe staff and client ratio to provide services to our clients. In conjunction with other staff, the Engagement Specialist’s task is to create a safe and caring environment for vulnerable young people in residence who are preparing to transition to become more self- sufficient.

The position requires an individual who can actively contribute to a positive, stable, responsive, and responsible environment for change.

• Build trust and rapport with young people experiencing homelessness and housing instability, young people who have experienced sexual exploitation and/or young people who are at risk.
• Engage, support, coach, and develop young people using healing-centered engagement practices and a strength-based approach.
• Provide sight and sound supervision to youth in accordance with state and federal standards.
• Must learn and apply positive behavior modification techniques and model effective de-escalation, problem-solving and mediation skills. Be willing to intervene in times of crisis using these skills.
• Complete necessary paperwork and data collection, including intake, enrollment, case notes as needed. Additionally complete Incident reports and/or Significant Incident Reports within the required timeframe on any facility damage, medical emergencies, client's welfare and/or any incident which occurs out of the ordinary functioning of the site.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records, progress notes, logbooks, and other types of documentation and enter data into Youth Care’s Case Worthy client management system according to agency standards.
• Execute Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) tasks and accreditation standards and adhere to all agency policies and procedures.
• Comply with Agency and Licensing’s mandated reporting requirement and report suspected abuse, neglect, or sexual exploitation of minors within the required timeframe.
• Work cooperatively and collaboratively with all site staff, partners, and volunteers to create a nurturing, dynamic, and constructive environment for young people.
• Support with coordination of basic needs, inclusion of meals, referrals to systems of support, clothing, etc.
• Develop and deliver group and individual programming to foster life and social skill development. Programming provides an opportunity for youth and young adults to engage, increase knowledge and skills, and moves young people toward the agency’s four core outcomes - housing stability, financial independence, community support, and wellness.
• Work collaboratively with other Youth Care programs, families, school district professionals, crisis services personnel, and staff from other agencies in support of youth.
• Communicate client needs and behaviors to the appropriate staff, and refer young people to appropriate and necessary services, as needed.
• Oversee the safety and cleanliness of the facility, including disinfecting surfaces and following cleaning protocols in the staff office, restrooms, laundry room, the community room/milieu, school, and client rooms. Perform light janitorial work, including vacuuming/sweeping/mopping; taking out trash; and similar tasks, as outlined by site need and agency protocols. Compile maintenance requests and submit to program leadership/maintenance staff as needed.
• Participate in regular supervision, client consultations, and staff and agency…