Trauma-Informed Child Development Specialist (Sat–Sun)

The Village for Families & Children; Hartford (CT); On-site; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition reimbursement

Staff recognition programs

Career development opportunities

Job summary

The Village for Families & Children is seeking a Child Development Specialist to join a 24-bed psychiatric residential treatment facility serving youth ages 6-12 in the Greater Hartford area. The role supports trauma-informed, family-centered care within a multidisciplinary team and emphasizes emotional regulation, coping skills, and safety.

Starting at $20.50 per hour with Saturday and Sunday shifts, the position participates in treatment plans, supervision, and group activities while building

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field is a plus.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Experience in human services or working with children with special needs preferred.
• Knowledge of child development and the impact of trauma, abuse, and neglect.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong cultural competence and ability to work with diverse populations.
• Ability to remain calm, manage stress, and respond safely in crisis or emergency situations.
• Physically able to supervise children and perform job duties, including physical interventions (holds) when necessary.

Responsibilities

• Supports treatment and educational needs of children with trauma-related challenges.
• Implements therapeutic behavior management strategies.
• Teaches and reinforces healthy coping skills aligned with treatment goals.
• Oversees daily routines (hygiene, meals, structure).
• Facilitates and participates in recreational group activities.
• Provides continuous supervision to ensure safety.
• Builds therapeutic relationships to support emotional regulation and prosocial skills.
• Transports clients to appointments or to community activities.

Skills

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Crisis management

Cultural competence

Calm under pressure

Transportation to appointments

Education

High school diploma

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in related field

Job description

The Village for Families & Children is seeking a Child Development Specialist to join a 24-bed psychiatric residential treatment facility serving youth ages 6-12 in the Greater Hartford area. The role supports trauma-informed, family-centered care within a multidisciplinary team and emphasizes emotional regulation, coping skills, and safety.

Starting at $20.50 per hour with Saturday and Sunday shifts, the position participates in treatment plans, supervision, and group activities while building