Youth Support Specialist: Trauma-Informed Mentor

New Avenues for Youth; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Dental insurance

Paid time off

Employee assistance program

Retirement plan

Employee discounts

Job summary

New Avenues for Youth in Portland, OR is seeking a Youth Support Specialist on the Alba team to help youth access services, coordinate intakes, and support housing placements.

You will mentor youths, advocate for their needs, connect with other providers, and lead group sessions and individual meetings. A commitment to trauma-informed care and equity is essential.

The position is a three-day in-office schedule with weekend coverage and competitive hourly wages, plus a robust benefits package.

Qualifications

• Two years minimum experience working with high-risk youth.
• Understand substance abuse, mental health, trauma, abuse and adolescent development including brain development.
• Experience, ability and commitment to working with sexual minority and culturally diverse staff, participants and community.
• Excellent communication, organization, creativity, flexibility, optimism, positive humor and overall interpersonal skills.
• An understanding of Positive Youth Development model and Trauma Informed Care.
• Must have access to an automobile, a valid driver’s license, and active auto insurance on that vehicle.
• Must be willing to be CPR trained and certified.

Responsibilities

• Meet Youth with Support and Compassion: Be the first point of contact in a youth’s journey to access services through the Alba Collaborative. Coordinate intakes, assessments, and emergency housing placements.
• Be a Mentor and Guide: Build genuine connections with youth, share relevant and intentional experiences to instill confidence and build trust.
• Empower Through Advocacy: Help young people navigate complex systems, access resources, collaborate and coordinate with other providers, and make informed decisions about their own recovery journey.
• Support Growth and Learning: Lead and participate in group sessions, recreational activities, and individual support meetings that foster connection and personal development.
• Document the Journey: Maintain accurate and timely records, ensuring that our programs have the data they need to thrive and continue serving those who need it most.

Skills

Youth experience

Active listening

Empathy

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Creativity

Flexibility

Equity awareness

Job description

New Avenues for Youth in Portland, OR is seeking a Youth Support Specialist on the Alba team to help youth access services, coordinate intakes, and support housing placements.

You will mentor youths, advocate for their needs, connect with other providers, and lead group sessions and individual meetings. A commitment to trauma-informed care and equity is essential.

The position is a three-day in-office schedule with weekend coverage and competitive hourly wages, plus a robust benefits package.