Youth Care Specialist

Youth Care Specialist – Residential Youth Services

Location: St. Augustine, FL
Job Type: Full-Time | Various Shifts (Waking & Non-Waking Hours)
Pay: Competitive based on experience
Schedule: Includes evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays

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 64-bed secure residential commitment program serving males ages 14–21. The facility includes two specialized treatment tracks: one for youth ages 14–18 receiving Mental Health Overlay Services (MHOS), and another for young adults ages 18–21 with Substance Abuse Overlay Services (SAOS).

The program provides individualized, trauma-informed care 24/7, including mental health and substance abuse treatment, individual and family therapy, social and life skills training, restorative justice, and education and vocational services.

Length of stay is based on each youth’s assessed risk level and progress toward treatment goals, typically ranging from 9 to 36 months. The program also includes a specialized track for sexually reactive adolescent males ages 13–17, focused on individualized, strength-based treatment and long-term success.

About the Role

As a Youth Care Specialist, you will supervise and support 7–10 youth through daily activities while helping them develop the internal skills they need to succeed. You’ll play a vital role in ensuring safety, modeling positive behaviors, and contributing to each youth’s treatment progress.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and monitor youth activities, safety, and well-being


• Facilitate group meetings and support conflict resolution


• Implement behavior management systems and de-escalation techniques


• Assist with schoolwork, activities, and treatment goals


• Document daily progress, incidents, and observations


• Communicate with treatment teams about youth progress

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent


• Valid driver’s license


• Ability to pass background checks

Preferred:

• 2 years of college coursework or experience working with youth


• CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention certification (or willingness to obtain)

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance


• 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting


• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period


• Free RX delivery on most medications


• Tuition reimbursement and professional development


• Robust Employee Assistance Program


• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Apply Today

Make a difference with us. Apply through Indeed or visit www.youthopportunity.com.

Youth Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer.