Youth Support & Safety Specialist

NYS Office of Children and Family Services; Town of Claverack (NY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The NYS Office of Children and Family Services seeks a Youth Support Specialist (YSS) to supervise and support court-placed youth aged 12-20 in OCFS facilities. You will be part of a team ensuring physical security, safety, and a therapeutic environment, while applying professional, respectful, and trauma-informed approaches.

The role requires providing 1-to-1 supervision when needed, participating on youth support teams, and guiding youths toward education, work readiness, and community

Qualifications

• Two years full-time direct care experience in the care and programming of youth aged 6-21.
• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Associate’s degree plus six months experience also qualifies.
• High school diploma with one year of direct care experience also qualifies.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and monitor court-placed youth in OCFS facilities.
• Be part of a treatment-focused youth support team.
• Engage with youth under physical and emotional stress.
• Use graduated harm reduction strategies and intervene when needed.
• Contribute to a collaborative, healthy facility environment.
• Supervise youth during recreation and education activities and assist with as-needed tasks.
• Maintain positive relationships with youths’ families.
• Assist youth in achieving education, work readiness, and community transition goals.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Conflict resolution

Education

Two years direct care experience with youth

Bachelor’s degree

Associate degree + six months experience

High school diploma + one year experience

Job description

The NYS Office of Children and Family Services seeks a Youth Support Specialist (YSS) to supervise and support court-placed youth aged 12-20 in OCFS facilities. You will be part of a team ensuring physical security, safety, and a therapeutic environment, while applying professional, respectful, and trauma-informed approaches.

The role requires providing 1-to-1 supervision when needed, participating on youth support teams, and guiding youths toward education, work readiness, and community