Youth Development Specialist

Youth and Family Advocates; Florida; On-site; USD 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Youth and Family Advocates is seeking an entry-level direct care teammate to supervise and transport youth ages 10–17 in a residential setting. The role emphasizes trauma-informed care, safety, and supportive interaction with residents and families.

The tiered pay ranges from $19 to $23 per hour based on program needs, skills, and experience, with a focus on consistent, respectful care and teamwork in a demanding environment.

Qualifications

• Trauma-informed approach required in all service delivery.
• Must possess a valid FL Driver's License with clean MVR and driving experience.
• Commitment to self-care to prevent burnout while delivering trauma-informed care.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and transport youth aged 10–17 in a residential program.
• Identify development areas using the Youth Development System.
• Provide direct supervision, including chore scheduling and teaching.
• Report unusual behavior; use Crisis Intervention techniques when trained.
• Maintain order and discipline and apply crisis interventions as needed.
• Foster a safe, welcoming environment for youth, families and staff.
• Lead group discussions and plan development-aligned recreational activities.
• Complete monitoring notes, incident reports, and client records.
• Handle intake clerical tasks for new residents.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Safe driving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate's Degree (preferred)

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: Entry-level direct care position responsible for the supervision and transportation of clients (10 to 17 years) in a youth residential program. This is a tiered position ranging from Entry Level Tier 1 ($19) - Tier 3 ($23). Based on program needs, skills and experience.

In addition to the duties and requirements listed below, YFA expects employees to be committed to incorporating principles of trauma-informed care in all areas of service delivery. Commitment to these principles is demonstrated through active participation in agency-required training, use of trauma-informed practices, and understanding that trauma-informed environments require cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on a safe and respectful environment for all.

Specific job responsibilities and goals include but are not limited to:

• Entry-level direct care position responsible for the supervision and transportation of clients (10 to 17 years) in a youth residential program.
• Utilize the Youth Development System to identify development areas for each youth.
• Provide direct supervision for resident clients, including chore scheduling and teaching.
• Report unusual behavior and use Crisis Intervention techniques proactively.
• Maintain order and discipline among resident clients, assigning consequences and using Crisis Intervention techniques when trained.
• Foster a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families, and colleagues, ensuring emotional and physical security without re-traumatization.
• Follow a trauma-informed approach, demonstrating sensitivity to individuals’ needs and experiences.
• Lead group discussions and plan recreational activities aligned with development themes.
• Complete monitoring notes, runaway/incident reports, and client case records.
• Handle clerical aspects of intake process for new resident clients.

Education & Experience:

Required: High School Diploma or GED; valid FL Driver's License with at least two years of driving experience, ability to maintain a clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) with absolutely no moving violations, ability to maintain and use personal vehicle/driving liability insurance. Ability to practice self-care and seek support as needed to prevent burnout while providing trauma-informed care.

Preferred: Associate's Degree, 2+ years of direct work experience with adolescents, work experience in a Residential setting.

Physical Requirements:

Requires a high degree of physical activity including the ability to run, jump, bend, and stand for significant time periods (2+ hours), lift and carry 50+ pounds. The ability to travel on a regional basis as needed for training and transport.