Residential Care Specialist — Trauma-Informed ABA Mentor

Wedgwood Christian Services; Grand Rapids (MI); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous PTO

Holiday pay

Employer-paid training

Job summary

Wedgwood Christian Services in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks a Developmental Care Specialist to provide direct care in a residential behavioral health program for boys ages 12–17. You will help youth build resilience, support emotional regulation, and participate in daily routines within a trauma-informed environment.

You’ll work with therapists and BCBA to implement ABA-based interventions, design engaging group activities, and transport residents to appointments and activities as needed.

Qualifications

• At least 20 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and safely perform physical interventions when necessary.
• Alignment with Wedgwood’s Statement of Faith, vision and values.

Responsibilities

• Implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with therapists and case managers.
• Create and maintain a safe, therapeutic environment grounded in the Sanctuary Model (safety, emotional intelligence, open communication, and social learning).
• Build mentoring relationships using trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches.
• Utilize verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to support behavioral regulation.
• Model and teach healthy communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills.
• Support youth in developing life skills, self-worth, and positive identity formation.
• Engage in structured recreational and skill-building activities.
• Administer medications as assigned and support physical wellness routines.
• Document and maintain accurate records in alignment with behavioral health standards.
• Transport residents to appointments, school, court, or community activities as needed.

Skills

Compassionate care

Crisis intervention

Trauma-informed care

Team collaboration

Education

Applied Behavioral Analysis

Social Work (BSW in progress or completed)

Counseling

Human Services

Child Development

Criminal Justice (youth focus)

Behavioral Health or related field

Job description

Wedgwood Christian Services in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks a Developmental Care Specialist to provide direct care in a residential behavioral health program for boys ages 12–17. You will help youth build resilience, support emotional regulation, and participate in daily routines within a trauma-informed environment.

You’ll work with therapists and BCBA to implement ABA-based interventions, design engaging group activities, and transport residents to appointments and activities as needed.