Youth Care Specialist

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant.

LSF is looking for talented Youth Care Specialists who want to make an impact in the lives of youth ages 10-17! 

This role requires all shifts including weekends!

Purpose & Impact:

This position has the responsibility of ensuring quality care.  The individual holding this position monitors daily activities of residents and informs the Program Manager of programmatic issues on a daily basis.  Responsibilities include supervising shelter residents intakes and monitoring necessary paperwork for the Centralized Intake component.  This is a direct service delivery position.  This position is not eligible for remote or hybrid work.

Essential Functions:

• Detects and envisions potential safety and security hazards to youth in residence, subsequently making recommendations and implementing corrective actions as appropriate or required.
• As directed, participates in the implementation and monitoring of client case plans.
• Assists with day-to-day maintenance of the facility in conjunction with the Program Manager.
• Assists with ensuring 24-hour direct care staff coverage in conjunction with the Program Manager.
• Screens clients, conducts initial intakes, and administers client satisfaction surveys as directed.
• Coordinates and assists with youth intakes and orientation during Intake process.
• Assists in maintaining reports in coordination with the Program Manager.
• Supervises youth as needed to include preparation of meals and completion of chores.
• Supervises and schedules maintenance and upkeep of the program vehicles.
• Performs related work as required and as directed by the Program Manager.

OTHER FUNCTIONS:

 Performs other duties as assigned by the Program/Operations Director and/or the Program Manager.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to remain physically active throughout the workday, including frequent walking, standing, bending, stooping, and lifting.
• Ability to safely and effectively intervene in crisis situations, including physically guiding or restraining youth when necessary and appropriate, following agency policies and training.
• Capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to move quickly and respond promptly to emergency situations.
• Regularly required to talk and hear; must be able to communicate effectively with youth and team members.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment, including computers and phones, as needed for documentation and communication.
• Must be able to work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather.
• Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to ensure the safety of youth in care.
• Must have a high level of energy. Must have full physical capabilities such as lifting, bending, cooking, cleaning, and using the telephone.  Ability to transport youth in the program vehicle and accompany youth on field trips/recreational outings.

EDUCATION:

HS Diploma or equivalent.

EXPERIENCE:

This is an entry level position.  Experience working with youth in an organized/structured setting is preferred, at the discretion of Supervisor/Manager.

SKILLS:

Must have good organization, written, and verbal skills.  Dependability, discretion, and good judgement are essential.  Must be able to establish and maintain effective relationships with clients, co-workers, and the general public.

Other:

Must demonstrate sensitivity to our service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs.

Certified CPR/First Aid, crisis intervention, a valid driver’s license, and proof of vehicle insurance required.

PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Reports to Program Manager.
• Detects and envisions safety and security hazards.
• Team player with co-workers and administrators.
• Ensures the maintenance of the shelter.
• Effective staff management and leadership.
• Adheres to Agency policies and procedures.
• Attend all required training.

Why work for LSF?

LSF offers 60 programs across the state of Florida serving a wide range of populations in need. Mission Driven staff members become part of the LSF community while transforming the lives of those in need. Our staff additionally find growth opportunities as they explore areas of interest within the organization.  

Amazing benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Telehealth (24/7 online access to Doctors)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employer paid life insurance (1X salary)
• 13 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday
• Generous PTO policy (starting at 16 working days a year)
• • Note: Head Start employees paid time off and holiday schedule may differ
• 403(b) Retirement plan with 3% discretionary employer match OR 3% student loan repayment reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement

LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Lutheran Services Florida is mandated to perform background screenings for employment in accordance with the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse as outlined in Section 435.12, Florida Statutes. Additionally, pursuant to House Bill 531 (2025), Lutheran Services Florida must ensure that all job vacancy postings and advertisements include a clear and conspicuous link to the AHCA Clearinghouse website and its requirements.  For more information on background screening requirements please visit: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/