Youth Specialist

Youth Specialist
Wolverine Human Services | Vassar, Michigan
Full-Time | Starting at $18.00 per hour

Help young people build a brighter future.

At Wolverine Human Services, our mission is “Helping Children and Families to be Victors.” Through residential treatment, foster care, and adoption services, we help children and families find safety, stability, and opportunities for growth.

As a Youth Specialist, you will work directly with young people in residential care who need dependable adults, clear expectations, encouragement, and positive role models. This hands-on position involves supporting daily routines, maintaining a safe environment, and helping youth develop skills for managing challenges and making positive choices.

What You Will Do

• Provide supervision and support during daily routines, meals, recreation, and program activities.

• Build respectful relationships while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

• Model calm communication, accountability, problem-solving, and respectful behavior.

• Reinforce program expectations and help youth practice positive coping and decision-making skills.

• Recognize developing concerns and use agency-approved techniques to help de-escalate challenging situations.

• Follow established procedures for responding to safety concerns and emergencies.

• Document observations, incidents, and other required information accurately and promptly.

• Communicate concerns and relevant updates to supervisors and treatment team members.

• Complete required training and apply agency policies consistently.

What We Are Looking For

Successful Youth Specialists are dependable, patient, observant, and able to remain professional under pressure. You should be comfortable providing direction, accepting feedback, working as part of a team, and maintaining clear boundaries with youth.

This role requires sound judgment and emotional maturity. Youth depend on staff who can respond consistently and respectfully, including during difficult moments.

Qualifications and Training

• High school diploma or GED.

• Ability to complete required Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) training and endorsement.

• Ability to complete Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (CPI) training and perform required techniques.

• Ability to obtain American Red Cross CPR and First Aid certification.

• Willingness to complete required agency training and follow documentation, safety, and professional conduct standards.

WHS provides required agency training to help employees prepare for their responsibilities.

Schedule

This is a full-time position in a residential program. Assigned schedules may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, with overtime based on program needs. Dependable attendance helps provide continuity and stability for the youth we serve.

Apply Today

If you are ready to bring patience, professionalism, and a strong sense of responsibility to work that matters, we encourage you to apply.

Visit our Employment Opportunities page to view openings and submit your application.