Youth Care & Empowerment Specialist

PATHWAYS TO PURPOSE; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Pathways to Purpose in Cleveland, OH seeks a compassionate Youth Care Specialist to support at‑risk girls age 12–18. You will provide direct care, guidance, and mentorship in a structured setting, helping youth meet personal and behavioral goals.

Responsibilities include building trusting relationships, implementing care plans, de‑escalating crises, and collaborating with case managers to ensure safe, supportive environments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; degree in Social Work or related field preferred.
• Experience with at‑risk youth in group home or residential care is desirable.
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed care and behavioral interventions is important.
• Strong communication, conflict resolution, and crisis de‑escalation skills are essential.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building rapport with youth.
• Background check and licensing requirements must be met; CPR/First Aid CPI certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision to youth in a group home setting.
• Build positive, trusting relationships to support emotional and behavioral development.
• Implement individualized care plans and document progress and observations.
• De‑escalate crisis situations using trauma‑informed approaches.
• Facilitate group activities, life skills programming, and recreation.
• Collaborate with case managers, counselors, and families to support goals.
• Maintain a safe, structured, and nurturing environment at all times.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Behavioral intervention

Youth development principles

Strong communication

Crisis de-escalation

Education

High school diploma or GED

Degree in Social Work or related field preferred

Job description

Pathways to Purpose in Cleveland, OH seeks a compassionate Youth Care Specialist to support at‑risk girls age 12–18. You will provide direct care, guidance, and mentorship in a structured setting, helping youth meet personal and behavioral goals.

Responsibilities include building trusting relationships, implementing care plans, de‑escalating crises, and collaborating with case managers to ensure safe, supportive environments.