About this opportunity
Wedgwood Christian Services lists this Developmental Care Specialist (Part-Time) | Residential Behavioral Health opportunity in grand rapids, Michigan. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Developmental Care Specialist (Part-Time) | Residential Behavioral Health
VanderArk B Program | Girls Ages 12–17 | Specialized program for girls with developmental disabilities
Why Wedgwood?
Since 1960, Wedgwood Christian Services has been dedicated to boldly taking on the toughest mental health and behavioral health problems in West Michigan. We serve children, teens, families, and adults through residential care, counseling services, and community programs.
Join a Trauma-Informed Residential Treatment Team
We are seeking a Developmental Care Specialist to provide direct care within our residential behavioral health program serving adolescent girls (ages 12–17). Many of the girls in our VanderArk B Program have never experienced consistent safety or stability. As a Developmental Care Specialist, you will show up daily as a stable, caring adult — helping youth build resilience, practice emotional regulation, and envision a future beyond trauma.
In addition to supporting normal daily operations of the residential unit, you will coordinate with the Program BCBA to implement focused behavioral intervention based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). You may facilitate social interactions, as well as design and conduct exciting daily small group activities in a fun, engaging environment.
If you are passionate about behavioral health, trauma-informed residential care, ABA, youth advocacy, and therapeutic mentorship, we invite you to apply.
Schedule:
3 out of 4 weekends a month (Saturday & Sunday) rotating between 1st/2nd shift with opportunities to pick up shifts
1st shift: 7am–3pm
2nd shift: 3pm–11pm
Compensation:
$20.50 - $22.50/hour
Time-and-a-half pay for hours worked on holidays
Employer-paid training and re-certification
What You'll Do
Working alongside our multidisciplinary treatment team, you will:
Implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with therapists and case managers
Create and maintain a safe, therapeutic environment grounded in the Sanctuary Model® (safety, emotional intelligence, open communication, and social learning)
Build consistent, mentoring relationships using trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches
Utilize verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to support behavioral regulation
Model and teach healthy communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills
Support youth in developing life skills, self-worth, and positive identity formation
Engage in structured recreational and skill-building activities
Administer medications as assigned and support physical wellness routines
Document and maintain accurate records in alignment with behavioral health standards
Transport residents to appointments, school, court, or community activities as needed
Background & Qualifications
Required:
At least 20 years of age
High school diploma or GED
Valid driver's license
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and safely perform physical interventions when necessary
Alignment with Wedgwood's Statement of Faith, vision and values
Preferred Education:
Applied Behavioral Analysis
Social Work (BSW in progress or completed)
Psychology
Counseling
Human Services
Child Development
Criminal Justice (youth focus)
Addiction Studies
Behavioral Health or related field
Preferred Experience:
Residential treatment (adolescents or adults)
ABA Therapy (in home or center based)
Behavioral health or mental health settings
Juvenile justice or youth-serving programs
Crisis intervention or trauma-informed environments
Rehabilitation or recovery centers/shelters
Group homes, inpatient, or community mental health
Benefits:
403(b) retirement plan with employer match
A Locally Partnered Employee Assistance Program
Pet insurance discount through Nationwide
Legal Insurance
Direct deposit
Federal Student Loan Forgiveness
Wedgwood is proud to offer a full gymnasium with an attached 24hr wellness center that houses a wide variety of workout equipment. Wedgwood is happy to provide this space to our staff at no cost.
Walking trail that leads around the beautiful campus.
Mission: Wedgwood Christian Services extends God's love to youth, adults, and families through professional counseling and educational services. Core Values: Integrity, Compassion, Excellence, and Diversity
Worksite address
grand rapids, MI, 49528, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.