Youth Care Specialist - Safe Haven Foster Program

One Family Illinois; Chicago Ridge (IL); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

One Family Illinois is seeking a Youth Care Worker to provide day-to-day support and supervision for children in the Safe Haven Emergency Foster Care Program. You will help with routines, safety, and trauma-informed care during transitions, collaborating with foster parents and staff to meet each child’s needs.

The role emphasizes empathetic engagement, crisis recognition, and documenting daily observations while coordinating care with the team.

Qualifications

• Requires High School Diploma or equivalent; associate degree preferred.
• Experience with youth in educational settings and foster care or similar programs is a plus.
• Ability to pass DCFS background checks and have valid IL driver's license with reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision and care for youth in the Safe Haven Program.
• Assist with daily routines including meals, schoolwork, recreation, hygiene, and bedtime.
• Engage youth in therapeutic and recreational activities to promote development.
• Build safe, trusting relationships using empathy, consistency, and respectful communication.
• Respond to potential crises using trauma-informed care and approved de-escalation techniques.
• Maintain safety and adhere to licensing standards; support family/sibling visitation as scheduled.
• Document observations and incidents per agency and DCFS requirements.
• Collaborate with foster parents and staff to implement individualized service plans.
• Participate in trainings, team meetings, and supervision.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Organizational skills

Discretion

Cultural sensitivity

Flexible hours

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate degree preferred

Job description

One Family Illinois is seeking a Youth Care Worker to provide day-to-day support and supervision for children in the Safe Haven Emergency Foster Care Program. You will help with routines, safety, and trauma-informed care during transitions, collaborating with foster parents and staff to meet each child’s needs.

The role emphasizes empathetic engagement, crisis recognition, and documenting daily observations while coordinating care with the team.