Youth Development Specialist (Part-Time)

Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc.; Florida; On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Part time

Job summary

Youth Development Specialist in Florida provides direct supervision for youth ages 10–17 in a residential program. This entry-level, part-time role emphasizes trauma-informed care and safe, supportive environments while teaching daily living skills.

Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid Florida driver’s license with a clean MVR; preferred associates degree and prior work with adolescents in residential settings.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; Florida driver\'s license with at least two years of driving experience; ability to maintain a clean MVR; readiness to practice self-care to prevent burnout while providing trauma-informed care.
• Preferred: Associate Degree; 2+ years of direct work with adolescents; residential setting experience.
• Must demonstrate trauma-informed approach and ability to work with youth and families.

Responsibilities

• Supervise youth (ages 10–17) in a residential program.
• Identify development areas using the Youth Development System.
• Provide direct supervision, schedule chores, and teach skills.
• Report unusual behavior and use Crisis Intervention techniques.
• Maintain order and discipline; administer consequences as trained.
• Foster a safe, welcoming environment for youth, families, and staff.
• Lead group discussions and plan development-themed activities.
• Complete monitoring notes, incident reports, and client records.
• Assist with intake clerical tasks for new residents.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Crisis Intervention

Group supervision

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate Degree (preferred)

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Youth Development Specialist (Part-Time)

Salary Range: $19.00 To $19.00 Hourly

POSITION SUMMARY:

Entry-level direct care position responsible for the supervision 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 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), ability to maintain 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 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.