Trauma-Informed Youth Care Specialist (Residential)

wedgwood; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 43,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) with employer match

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Tuition discounts through community

Job summary

Wedgwood Christian Services in Grand Rapids is seeking a Youth Treatment Specialist for our Audere Program (ages 15–18) in a trauma-informed residential setting. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to support youth daily.

You will implement individualized treatment plans, foster a safe therapeutic environment, teach life skills, and use de-escalation and crisis intervention when needed. The role offers evenings and weekend shifts, competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits,

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®.
• Build mentoring relationships using trauma-informed, 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.
• Transport residents to appointments, school, court, or community activities as needed.
• Document and maintain accurate records in alignment with behavioral health standards.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Verbal de-escalation

Crisis intervention

Relationship-building

Effective communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Social Work (BSW in progress or completed)

Psychology

Counseling

Human Services

Child Development

Criminal Justice (youth focus)

Behavioral Health or related field

Job description

Wedgwood Christian Services in Grand Rapids is seeking a Youth Treatment Specialist for our Audere Program (ages 15–18) in a trauma-informed residential setting. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to support youth daily.

You will implement individualized treatment plans, foster a safe therapeutic environment, teach life skills, and use de-escalation and crisis intervention when needed. The role offers evenings and weekend shifts, competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits,