Care Specialist (HUB)

Daybreak; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 19,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

Daybreak is seeking an entry-level Care Specialist in Dayton, OH to support youth and young adults experiencing homelessness. The role focuses on safety, relationship-building, life skills, and trauma-informed care within a residential HUB setting.

The position involves crisis intervention, group facilitation, and collaboration with clinical staff to promote stability and well-being of YYAs. High school diploma or GED with relevant experience required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of High School diploma or GED AND five (5) years’ working experience in a social services, education, behavioral health, or similar setting required.
• OR Associate’s degree in social work, psychology, criminal justice, or related field AND two (2) years of experience in a social services, education, behavioral health, or similar setting required.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience working directly with youth and young adults is required, those experiencing homelessness or housing instability preferred.

Responsibilities

• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and trauma-informed residential environment that respects the autonomy and dignity of all YYAs.
• Support YYAs in navigating daily living activities, reinforcing positive habits in areas such as good hygiene, housekeeping, time management, and meal preparation.
• Assist in life skills development and positive connections by facilitating and encouraging engagement in enrichment activities, social skill-building, and problem solving.
• Provide daily face-to-face crisis intervention and stabilization services; conflict resolution, coping strategies, and emotional regulation according to agency intervention training and the needs of the client.
• Lead structured groups focused on coping skills, emotional regulation, life skills, etc.

Skills

Youth experience

Crisis intervention

Trauma-informed care

Education

High School diploma or GED

Associate’s degree in social work/psychology/criminial justice

Job description

Job Details Level: Entry Job Location: Dayton, OH 45402 Position Type: Full Time Education Level: High School Salary Range: $16.48 Hourly Travel Percentage: Less than 10% Job Shift: FirstJob Job Category: Nonprofit - Social Services

The Care Specialist plays an essential role in supporting youth and young adults (YYAs) experiencing homelessness by fostering a safe, stable, and supportive environment. This position focuses on supporting the physical and emotional safety of clients by building positive relationships, promoting life skills development, facilitating life enrichment activities for youth, and ensuring adherence to program guidelines. The Care Specialist coordinates and facilitates all activities in the HUB and acts as a central point of contact for coordinating group sessions and activities. The Specialist aids in administering the clients’ individualized treatment plans, monitors client progress, and provides emotional support to promote stability and well-being. This position ensures the safety of clients by assisting with crisis intervention and triage when necessary. This position works collaboratively with clinical staff in providing holistic, trauma-informed care that enhances the overall well-being and long-term stability of YYAs.

Duties & Responsibilities

Client Support

• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and trauma-informed residential environment that respects the autonomy and dignity of all YYAs.
• Support YYAs in navigating daily living activities, reinforcing positive habits in areas such as good hygiene, housekeeping, time management, and meal preparation.
• Assist in life skills development and positive connections by facilitating and encouraging engagement in enrichment activities, social skill-building, and problem solving.
• Provide daily face-to-face crisis intervention and stabilization services; conflict resolution, coping strategies, and emotional regulation according to agency intervention training and the needs of the client.
• Offer empathetic listening and guidance to help clients manage stress, anxiety, and behavioral challenges.

Operations and Program Support

• Lead structured groups focused on coping skills, emotional regulation, life skills, etc.
• Coordinate with the team and participate in client engagement and resident activities (i.e., groups, chores). Assist clients with daily living activities while maintaining a therapeutic environment.
• Monitor and maintain communal spaces, ensuring they remain clean, organized, and conducive to a positive living experience.
• Support YYAs in tracking their weekly schedules, reinforcing accountability for work, school and program participation.

Collaboration and Team Coordination

• Work closely with case managers and other team members to ensure seamless coordination of services and alignment with each client’s individualized goals. Collaborate with clinical team members to ensure continuity of care and adherence to treatment goals.
• Communicate with the security team and follow safety protocols to ensure a secure and stable residential environment for all YYAs.

Safety & Security Functions

• Monitor facility entry points, common areas, and client spaces to maintain a secure and welcoming environment. Conduct regular walkthroughs and safety checks in accordance with agency policies.
• Provide immediate support during emotional or behavioral crises using approved de-escalation techniques and report incidents promptly.

Documentation and Compliance

• Document shift events in daily log, prepare and maintain accurate records, complete UIR (Unusual Incident report) and other forms that may be required in CareLogic or for PQI as assigned and as required.
• Maintain accurate client records in compliance with agency procedures and funder requirements, ensuring all documentation is completed within 72 hours as per agency standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of High School diploma or GED AND five (5) years’ working experience in a social services, education, behavioral health, or similar setting required.
• OR Associate’s degree in social work, psychology, criminal justice, or related field AND two (2) years of experience in a social services, education, behavioral health, or similar setting required.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience working directly with youth and young adults is required, those experiencing homelessness or housing instability preferred.