This job is closed
Applications are no longer available for this announcement. Explore current related opportunities below.
Job description
Youth Care Specialist – Youth Behavioral Health
Location: St. Augustine, FL Department: Operations Job Type: Full-Time Pay: $19.00 / hr
About Youth Opportunity & St. Augustine Youth Academy
Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. St. Augustine Youth Academy in St. Augustine, Florida, is a secure 70-bed Youth Academy serving males ages 13 to 17, providing trauma-informed care for mental health and substance abuse treatment needs. The center integrates clinical therapy, education, restorative justice, therapeutic recreation, and life skills development. Youth typically stay according to individual treatment progress, engaging in individual, family, and group therapy; victim impact awareness; pre-vocational preparation; and enrichment activities including art, music, and recreation. Small group living units and licensed dietitian-managed nutrition promote stabilization and successful community reintegration.
Youth Care Specialist Job Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with up to 4% employer match with immediate vesting
Paid time off (PTO) and 7 paid holidays (earn 4 hours of PTO per pay period)
Free RX delivery on most medications
Tuition reimbursement and professional development
Robust Employee Assistance Program
Supportive, mission-driven work environment
Why Join Youth Opportunity?
Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth
Gain experience in a growing field of youth mental health and residential care
Work in a secure, structured, and supportive treatment environment
Develop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities
Position Summary – Youth Care Specialist Job in St. Augustine, FL
We are hiring a Youth Care Specialist to join our team at St. Augustine Youth Academy. This is a direct care position responsible for supervising a group of 7-10 youth during daily activities, ensuring their safety and well-being while guiding them in developing the internal controls necessary for long-term success. This role is ideal for compassionate, patient individuals who want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.
Youth Care Specialist Responsibilities
Supervise and monitor the activities of a group of youth, maintaining constant awareness of their whereabouts
Ensure safety and security through adherence to procedures on movement, security, contraband, headcounts, and reporting
Utilize group counseling techniques, individual relationships, positive discipline strategies, and crisis intervention when necessary
Represent youth needs and progress to treatment teams and provide progress reports
Facilitate daily meetings ("huddle-ups") to encourage accountability and teamwork
Support classroom teachers by reinforcing educational content in living units
Encourage and support youth engagement in activities and programs that promote learning and personal growth
Document daily shift activities and population counts, refer special needs or medical concerns, and communicate key events to incoming shifts
Other Duties Include
Participate in required training and professional development
Report incidents or concerns regarding youth or staff conduct
Perform other duties as assigned or needed
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent required; two years of college coursework in a social or human services field preferred
2 years of experience working with youth preferred (if no college coursework)
Strong verbal communication skills; able to relate to youth in a professional, non-patronizing manner
Group counseling and leadership skills
Analytical thinking and sound judgment
Certification in First Aid, CPR, and crisis intervention required during probationary period
Ability to document clearly and objectively
Physical Demands
Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds
Extensive walking and standing required
Ability to respond quickly to youth altercations, self-harm risks, or escape attempts
Must be able to participate in physical activities with youth, indoors or outdoors
Must be free from communicable diseases as defined by the state
Other Requirements
Valid driver's license and safe driving record required
Must meet state criminal background check requirements
How to Apply
Click "Apply Now" through Indeed to submit your application. Or visit to learn more about our mission and career opportunities.
Youth Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.