Shift Leader - Direct Care

Four Oaks Family And Childrens Services; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental and Vision insurance

401(k) plan

Career growth opportunities

Paid leave and paid holidays

Team-oriented environment

Meaningful work

Job summary

Four Oaks Family And Childrens Services is seeking a Shift Leader for Youth Residential Care in Cedar Rapids, IA. The role focuses on leading daily shift operations, supervising Youth Counselors, and maintaining a structured, therapeutic environment for youth facing behavioral and emotional challenges.

The position emphasizes hands-on leadership, relationship-building, and adherence to daily routines, with collaboration to support program goals and ensure high-quality care.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old with a high school diploma or GED plus two years of child welfare experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in a social-services related field is preferable.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily shift operations with hands-on supervision of youth in a residential setting.
• Be a positive role model to help youth develop coping skills, manage emotions, and make positive choices.
• Coordinate staffing and support daily routines, therapeutic interventions, and behavior management strategies.
• Maintain accurate shift logs and daily documentation; ensure timely reporting.

Skills

Leadership

Youth services

Team supervision

Positive role model

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree in social services (preferred)

Job description

Shift Leader – Youth Residential CareLead with Purpose. Inspire Growth. Change Lives.Are you ready to take the next step in your career while making a difference in the lives of youth who need it most?At Four Oaks, we believe every young person deserves a safe, supportive environment where they can grow, overcome challenges, and work toward a brighter future. We're looking for a compassionate, dependable, and motivated Shift Leader who is ready to step up, lead by example, and make a lasting impact!As a Shift Leader in Youth Residential Care, you'll play an important role in creating a structured, therapeutic environment for youth facing behavioral, emotional, and personal challenges. You'll provide hands-on support to youth while guiding your team through daily activities, challenges, and successes.This is more than just a leadership role. It's an opportunity to be the positive influence a young person may never forget!What You'll DoEvery shift brings new challenges, opportunities, and moments that matter! As a Shift Leader, you will:Lead with Confidence: Coordinate daily shift operations while providing hands-on supervision, guidance, and care to youth in a residential setting.Be a Positive Role Model: Help youth develop healthy coping skills, manage emotions, build confidence, and make positive choices.Turn Challenges into Opportunities: Use everyday situations to teach life skills, encourage accountability, and reinforce positive behaviors.Build Trusting Relationships: Create meaningful connections with youth through consistency, patience, respect, and understanding.Support and Guide Your Team: Provide leadership, direction, and encouragement to Youth Counselors while promoting teamwork and a positive environment.Create a Safe and Structured Environment: Support daily routines, therapeutic interventions, and behavior management strategies that promote safety and personal growth.Keep Operations Running Smoothly: Partner with the Program Manager to coordinate staffing schedules, address coverage needs, and assist with home visit transportation arrangements.Stay Organized and Accountable: Ensure daily documentation, shift logs, and required reporting are accurate, complete, and timely.Be a Solution-Focused Leader: Collaborate with fellow Shift Leaders and program leadership to problem-solve challenges and maintain consistent, quality care.Why You'll Love Working at Four OaksWe know that supporting youth through life's challenges takes dedication, patience, and heart. That's why we're committed to supporting the employees who make our mission possible!As part of the Four Oaks team, you'll enjoy:Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – Benefits to support your health and well-being.401(k) Retirement Plan – Helping you plan for your future.Competitive Wages – Compensation for the meaningful work you do.Growth & Advancement Opportunities – Build your leadership skills and grow your career.Excellent Paid Leave Package – Because time away from work matters, too.7 Paid Holidays – Additional time to recharge.Supportive Team Environment – Work alongside individuals who share your passion for helping youth.Meaningful Work – Make a lasting difference in the lives of young people every day.Your Leadership Could Change Someone's Future!Working in youth residential care isn't always easy, but the impact you make can last a lifetime.You might be the person who helps a young person work through a difficult moment, discover their strengths, or realize they are capable of more than they ever imagined.And while you're helping youth grow, you'll have opportunities to grow as a leader, too!If you're passionate about helping youth, enjoy leading a team, and want a career that truly matters, we want YOU on our team!Be the Leader. Be the Difference. Join Four Oaks!Apply today and help create brighter futures for the youth we serve!What you need:To qualify for this position you must be at least 21 years of age and possess a high school diploma or GED plus two (2) years of child welfare experience. A Bachelor’s degree in a social services related field is preferable. Desire to help kids succeed