Child Advocate

Job Summary

The primary responsibility of a Child Advocate is to provide a safe, healthy and nurturing environment which fosters physical, emotional, social, personal, creative and language development in the children under their care.

The Child Advocate shall be at least 21 years of age and have at least a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate. They must be responsible, mature individuals of reputable character who exercise sound judgment and have the ability to provide good care for children. A minimum of one year experience working with children in a day‑care or residential setting is preferable.

Candidates must hold a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and proof of insurance. Additionally, Child Advocates must pass required background screening, physical and TB screening.

The Child Advocate position offers a set schedule determined with the employee prior to the start date. Child Advocates are required to work every other weekend to ensure staffing for 24/7 care.

• Responsible for reading, understanding, and implementing all agency policies that are approved by the Board of Directors.
• Provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for the children and families under the licensing regulations identified by the Division of Social Services.
• Provide a positive and successful environment for the children and families at Isabel's House.
• Maintain child‑to‑staff ratio at all times.
• Prepare for shift work; e.g., read files, review logs, check mailbox.
• Maintain a healthy environment and supervise personal hygiene of children.
• Manage children's activities and leisure time.
• Assist children in school homework and activities.
• Exercise agency-approved discipline and guidance policies and techniques for the children of Isabel's House.
• Utilize service plans and behavior plans developed by the House Manager and/or family.
• Advocate to address the needs of the children.
• Accurately complete required documentation for all children's records.
• Engage in overall care of the house, including but not limited to housekeeping and laundry; maintain appropriate documentation.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times and adhere to HIPAA guidelines.
• Transport children to and from school and/or activities.
• Answer phones and the door when needed.
• Assist in donations and inventory process.
• Assist in well‑child exams.

• Maintain healthy professional adult behavior with the children, families, co‑workers and volunteers at all times.
• Exercise sound judgment at all times.
• Communicate effectively with all team members (written, oral, electronically).
• Role model healthy professional adult behavior and provide social guidance.
• Provide appropriate guidance and management techniques for children.
• Work under pressure and be flexible in a fast‑paced environment.
• Work as a team player.
• Problem‑solve under pressure and juggle multiple tasks.
• Display creativity and initiative.

• Complete agency-required training on an annual and ongoing basis, including attending mandatory trainings.
• Attend regularly scheduled team meetings.
• Work effectively with volunteers.

• Lift children weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Health risks due to daily contact with children.
• Work every other weekend.
• Work other shifts when necessary.

Entry level

Full‑time

Other

Individual and Family Services