In-Home Lead Youth Specialist at Teaching Family Homes of Upper Michigan – Marquette, Michigan

In-Home Lead Youth Specialist

Position Type: Full-Time

Hourly Wage: $20.00 per hour

On Call Shift Coverage

Benefits: Blue Cross Blue Shield- Individual and family plans, Dental, Vision, PTO, 403 B Retirement Plan

Position Summary

The In-Home Lead Youth Specialist is responsible for providing direct supervision, guidance, and skill development to youth placed in a residential treatment setting. This position plays a key role in supporting youth as they learn emotional regulation, life skills, and healthy decision-making.

The In-Home Lead works directly with youth in the home environment, modeling positive behavior, implementing treatment plans, and helping maintain a safe, structured, and supportive living environment. This position also assists with daily routines, transportation to appointments and school, and responding to behavioral challenges using trauma-informed and approved intervention techniques.

Essential Responsibilities

Youth Support and Skill Development

• Teach and model appropriate social, emotional, and life skills to youth.
• Assist youth in learning healthy coping strategies and emotional regulation skills.
• Support youth in completing daily routines such as hygiene, meals, school preparation, and recreational activities.
• Reinforce expectations and behavioral goals identified in youth treatment plans.
• Provide encouragement and mentorship to help youth build confidence and independence.

Supervision and Safety

• Maintain appropriate supervision of youth to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Implement program structure and house expectations consistently.
• Utilize trauma-informed approaches when responding to behavioral challenges.
• When necessary, implement approved physical intervention techniques in accordance with agency training and policies to maintain safety.
• Assist with crisis response and de-escalation strategies.

Transportation and Appointments

• Transport youth to school, medical appointments, therapy sessions, court appointments, and recreational activities.
• Ensure youth arrive safely and on time to scheduled commitments.

Documentation and Communication

• Document daily observations, behaviors, and incidents in accordance with agency policy.
• Communicate relevant information to supervisors and treatment team members.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to youth treatment planning when appropriate.

Household Operations

• Assist with maintaining a structured and organized home environment.
• Support meal preparation, household chores, and daily living routines alongside youth.
• Model appropriate problem-solving and communication skills within the household.

Physical Requirements

This position may require physical activity including:

• Walking or moving quickly to maintain supervision of youth
• Standing for extended periods
• Assisting during crisis situations
• Safely implementing trained physical intervention or restraint techniques when necessary
• Driving youth to appointments and community activities

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required (Associate or Bachelor’s degree in social services, psychology, or related field preferred)
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record
• Ability to pass background and clearance checks required for working with youth
• Ability to work effectively with youth who may have emotional or behavioral challenges
• Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to complete required training in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and youth development

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with youth in residential care, education, behavioral health, or social services
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices
• Experience with de-escalation and behavioral support techniques

Work Environment

The In-Home Lead Youth Specialist works in a residential home environment with youth who may have experienced trauma, behavioral challenges, or family disruption. Staff work as part of a team to provide structure, consistency, and support to help youth succeed.