Trauma‑Informed Youth Care & Behavior Specialist

New Mexico Department of Justice; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) seeks a Care & Behavioral Support Specialist to provide direct care and supervision for children and adolescents during transitional placements. You will implement trauma-responsive strategies, support safety, and collaborate with caseworkers to plan for stable placements.

Key responsibilities include maintaining routine, responding to crises with de-escalation, and ensuring thorough documentation to support safety and quality care.

Qualifications

• Direct care and supervision for children/adolescents with behavioral and emotional needs.
• Trauma-responsive and de-escalation techniques to maintain safety.
• Clear crisis response with calm, empathetic decision making.
• Accurate, timely documentation and communication with team.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision to ensure safety and emotional regulation for children/adolescents in transitional settings.
• Implement trauma-responsive strategies to de-escalate crises and meet individual needs.
• Coordinate daily routines including meals, hygiene, rest and recreation for stability.
• Collaborate with supervisors and caseworkers to share observations and plan next steps for placement and care.
• Maintain accurate documentation of incidents, observations, and progress to support communication and quality improvement.
• Participate in debriefings and safety planning to strengthen crisis response and safety.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Crisis intervention

Documentation

Child/Youth behavioral support

Education

Bachelor's degree in social work, education, counseling, psychology, sociology, criminal justice or family studies

Six years combined education/experience substitution option

Job description

The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) seeks a Care & Behavioral Support Specialist to provide direct care and supervision for children and adolescents during transitional placements. You will implement trauma-responsive strategies, support safety, and collaborate with caseworkers to plan for stable placements.

Key responsibilities include maintaining routine, responding to crises with de-escalation, and ensuring thorough documentation to support safety and quality care.