Residential Care Specialist for Teens (ABA & Trauma-Informed)

Wedgwood Christian Services; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) retirement plan with employer/

Employee Assistance Program

Pet insurance discount through Nationw

Legal Insurance

Direct deposit

Federal Student Loan Forgiveness

Gym and wellness center access

Walking trail on campus

Job summary

Wedgwood Christian Services seeks a Developmental Care Specialist to support a VanderArk A Program for adolescent boys (ages 12–17) in a residential setting. You will apply trauma-informed practices and ABA-based interventions to build safety, resilience, and healthy behaviors.

You will collaborate with clinicians, implement individualized plans, and mentor youth through structured activities while maintaining thorough documentation and safety standards on campus.

Qualifications

• Background in residential behavioral health and trauma-informed care.
• Experience with ABA-based interventions and behavior management.
• Ability to work with adolescents in a clinical residential setting.

Responsibilities

• Implement individualized treatment plans with therapists and case managers.
• Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment grounded in Sanctuary Model.
• Build mentoring relationships using trauma-informed approaches.
• De-escalate crises and support behavioral regulation.
• Teach life skills and daily living competencies.
• Administer medications as assigned and document records.
• Transport residents to appointments and activities.

Education

Applied Behavioral Analysis

Social Work (BSW)

Psychology

Counseling

Human Services

Child Development

Criminal Justice (youth focus)

Addiction Studies

Behavioral Health

Job description

Wedgwood Christian Services seeks a Developmental Care Specialist to support a VanderArk A Program for adolescent boys (ages 12–17) in a residential setting. You will apply trauma-informed practices and ABA-based interventions to build safety, resilience, and healthy behaviors.

You will collaborate with clinicians, implement individualized plans, and mentor youth through structured activities while maintaining thorough documentation and safety standards on campus.