Youth Support Specialist-Full-Time-Schedule in Description

EverForward; Saint Petersburg (FL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

EverForward is seeking a Youth Support Specialist to deliver trauma-informed, youth-centered care in our Residential Group Care program. You will supervise, mentor, and support residents, promoting healthy routines and safety protocols.

You will work with clinical staff, contribute to treatment plans, and help youth develop life skills through structured activities and family engagement. Training in trauma-informed care is provided.

Qualifications

• Education: a bachelor’s degree in a human services-related field or equivalent experience/training.
• Experience: at least one year working with youth with serious emotional disturbances (SED).
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care and de-escalation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, supportive environment through active supervision and role modeling.
• Guide youth in building life skills from social interactions to emotional regulation.
• Lead group and individual activities promoting education, recreation, and social development.
• Support therapeutic programs and document progress accurately and timely.
• Collaborate on treatment plans and participate in goal-setting and reviews.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Empathy-driven

Leadership instincts

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in human services

High school diploma with substantial experience

Job description

Organizational Mission

EverForward is on a mission to transform lives. We champion trauma-informed, evidence-based care for children and families, and it all begins with empowering our team. Through expert training and unwavering compliance, we ensure our staff are equipped to deliver the kind of support that makes a lifelong difference.

Description

EverForward is on a mission to transform lives. We champion trauma-informed, evidence-based care for children and families, and it all begins with empowering our team. Through expert training and unwavering compliance, we ensure our staff are equipped to deliver the kind of support that makes a lifelong difference.

Position Requirements

The Youth Support Specialist plays an essential frontline role in the therapeutic care and daily support of youth in our Residential Group Care program. This position is responsible for ensuring the consistent implementation of trauma-informed, youth-centered practices through active engagement, supervision, and mentoring of residents. The Youth Support Specialist contributes to a structured, nurturing environment by modeling healthy behaviors, supporting individualized treatment plans, and maintaining the routines and safety protocols of the program. Working closely with clinical staff and program leadership, this role is foundational to delivering high-quality, person-centered care and supporting the emotional, social, and developmental growth of the youth we serve.

Hours/Shifts

Sunday through Thursday, and Tuesday though Saturday

Shift Options

• 1:00PM-9:00PM
• 2:00PM-10:00PM
• 3:00PM-11:00AM

Position Responsibilities

As a Youth Support Specialist, you're a vital member of the treatment team, working alongside therapists, case managers, and fellow counselors to build a safe, supportive, and structured environment for our youth.

Key Responsibilities

• Creating a safe and supportive environment through active supervision and positive role modeling.
• Guiding youth in building essential life skills from healthy social interaction to emotional regulation and coping strategies.
• Leading group and individual activities that promote education, recreation, social development, and community engagement.
• Supporting therapeutic programs, assisting in delivering individual and group services, and documenting progress accurately and on time.
• Collaborating on treatment plans and participating in goal-setting and progress reviews, including debriefs after weekend visits home.
• Encouraging personal responsibility, helping youth with hygiene, chores, and daily routines.
• Assisting in the daily operations of the group home, from preparing meals and basic upkeep to medication distribution and recordkeeping.
• Actively engaging families and/or teams, sharing insights on youth progress, and fostering ongoing communication.
• Participating and attending team meetings, trainings, and workshops to support ongoing growth and stay up-to-date with best practices, including training in trauma-informed care.

EEO and ADA Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

This position requires a Level II Background Check

For more information, please visit the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website, implemented under the directive of House Bill 531 (2025) https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Requirements

• Education: A bachelor’s degree in a human services-related field from an accredited college or university, or a high school diploma paired with substantial experience and training in education, human services, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience working with children with serious emotional disturbances (SED) is required
• Experience in residential treatment, group home care, special education, or related human services environments
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care practices and de-escalation techniques
• Exposure to treatment planning, therapeutic goal setting, or interdisciplinary collaboration
• Prior involvement in recreational programming, mentorship, or structured youth activities
• Experience managing challenging behaviors with empathy, consistency, and clear boundaries
• Competence in maintaining accurate documentation and shift communication logs
• Previous roles requiring team collaboration, supervision, or coordination with clinical professionals
• A deep sense of empathy, strong leadership instincts, and a natural ability to connect with and inspire young people.

Professional Competencies

• Strong interpersonal communication and active listening skills
• Empathy-driven approach to youth engagement and behavior management
• Consistent application of structure, routines, and program expectations
• Ability to serve as a positive role model in all interactions
• Effective decision-making under pressure, including during behavioral incidents
• Adaptability in dynamic, fast-paced environments
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professional ethics
• Ability to follow treatment protocols and contribute to team-based care
• Organizational skills and time management for multitasking responsibilities
• Commitment to continuous learning through trainings and professional development