Youth Engagement Specialist (YTH)
Washington, DC, United States
Job Description Job Description Salary: $20-$22 hourly rate
Job Description
Position Title: Youth Engagement Specialist (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Program Manager - Youth Temporary Housing Program (YTH)
Program Area Youth Transitional Housing
Department: Homeless Intervention Services
Job Summary
The Youth Engagement Specialist provides direct support services to program participants, focusing on enrichment and community-building activities that support the development of independent living skills for youth aged 18-24.
Essential Responsibilities
Supervise the apartment building throughout the shift.
Plan and execute at least one residential social activity per week for clients.
Develop meaningful and purposeful relationships with clients.
Ensure the safety and current placement of clients in the programs.
Use effective interpersonal communication skills to gain client cooperation and resolve conflicts.
Deescalate client crises and emergencies appropriately.
Serve as a liaison with building management during non-office hours.
Document all contacts with clients, family members, staff, and representatives from other agencies involved in the provision of client services.
Write detailed Unusual Incident Reports for each incident that occurs during shifts.
Lead or participate in staff training and seminar presentations as requested.
Notify the Supervisor of any significant client medical complaints, unusual events, accidents, medical problems, property damage, or maintenance concerns.
Conduct apartment inspections as needed to monitor for safety and program violations.
Ensure clients respect building quiet hours and other building and program regulations.
Work on budgeting aspects of assigned programs and maintain detailed accounts of finances.
Provide client stipends in conjunction with client case managers.
Attend individual and/or group clinical supervision on a weekly basis.
Attend programmatic meetings with the Shelter Coordinator.
Improve professional skills by attending workshops, seminars, and training sessions as allowed by time and funding constraints.
Perform other activities as assigned.
Education & Experience Requirements
At least a Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related human services field; (High School diploma or 2 years of experience working with homeless youth can substitute for a bachelor’s degree).
Skills & Qualifications
Familiarity with trauma-informed care, strength-based, and Housing First approaches.
Knowledge of services and resources in the areas of mental health, substance abuse, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Knowledge in crisis intervention.
Ability to evaluate youth’s emotional, behavioral, and social needs and determine optimal treatment strategies.
Ability to conduct individual, family, and group counseling sessions.
Ability to relate to a culturally diverse population.
Must complete criminal and child abuse/neglect clearances.
Must complete CPR and First Aid certification.
Flexible, energetic, positive individual committed to youth development in a high-quality, respectful environment.
Ability to work well and communicate with culturally diverse populations.
All employees are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination will be requested at the time of the interview and at onboarding.
Salary Range: $20 - $22 per hour
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