Trauma-Informed Youth Behavior Specialist

Greatfuturessd; Yankton (SD); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains in Yankton, SD is seeking a Behavior Support Specialist to support youths ages 5-18 through behavioral, social, and emotional growth. The role combines direct member support, family engagement, and staff coaching to create a safe, inclusive Club environment using trauma-informed practices and individualized Success Plans.

The Specialist will train staff, monitor plans, and collaborate with schools and community partners, ensuring progress and adaptive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, education, or related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in behavioral health and/or working with youth in group settings.
• Strong knowledge of child and adolescent development, trauma-informed practices, and behavior management.
• Skilled in family engagement, mentoring, and group facilitation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
• Ability to remain calm, flexible, and professional in high-energy and stressful situations.
• Familiarity with community resources available to youth and families.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Responsibilities

• Provide immediate redirection and de-escalation during behavioral incidents to ensure a safe environment.
• Build supportive, consistent relationships with youth and families that encourage resilience and growth.
• Partner with staff, families, and schools to create, implement, and monitor individualized Plans.
• Track progress, update plans, and communicate outcomes to families and staff.
• Ensure staff are aware of and implement strategies in Success Plans.
• Deliver staff training on proactive behavior management and trauma-informed care.
• Maintain accurate documentation of behavioral incidents and follow-up actions.
• Collaborate with schools and community resources to expand support for members and families.

Skills

Trauma-informed practices

Staff coaching

De-escalation

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, education, or related field

Job description

Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains in Yankton, SD is seeking a Behavior Support Specialist to support youths ages 5-18 through behavioral, social, and emotional growth. The role combines direct member support, family engagement, and staff coaching to create a safe, inclusive Club environment using trauma-informed practices and individualized Success Plans.

The Specialist will train staff, monitor plans, and collaborate with schools and community partners, ensuring progress and adaptive