Youth Engagement Specialist

Áwtni Shixwitpamá(Behavioral Health)

Department of Tribal Health

Hourly Wage: $21.11/Regular/Full-Time

This position is responsible for developing and leading activities to represent the voice of youth who have serious mental health needs with staff who are charged with the planning and implementation of the systems of care program. This position is empowered to hold the Yakama Nation Behavioral Health Services accountable for the "youth -guided" principles of Systems of Care grant. Responsibilities include developing year-round programs for young people, and to facilitate their involvement in the planning and development of a systems of care model, and to promote and model positive youth leadership. Will outreach, plan, and implement programming components to meet goals and objectives by ensuring meaningful programming and space are available for children, youth, and families.

Examples of Work Performed:

Work with children on goals such as community integration, appropriate social skills, anger management/coping skills and daily living skills.

Work with children with depression, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD/ADD, attachment disorders, anxiety, sensory processing disorder, and other developmental disorders.

Working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities and/or mental health issues.

Advocate with school personnel on behalf of each student and family.

Participate in and represent YNBHS and Systems of Care grant at various activities and community events throughout the school year.

Assist coordinating events and activities and events per grant requirements.

Assist with coordinating child-led school and community events that promote awareness regarding youth and Historical Trauma and community service experiences for youth and their families.

Develops and implements enrichment activities for children and youth that promotes a safe environment, a supportive environment, teaches and practices social-emotional skills and promotes engagement from youth in design of program.

Networks with local agencies to develop and enhance systems of care models for children and youth.

Help clients achieve wellness and autonomy.

Conduct assessments and engage in planning, the child and adolescent case manager must have good skills in interviewing and documentation.

Implementing functions associated with linking and referring children and families to service systems, the case manager will need to have skills in negotiating, collaborating, and brokering.

Implementation of skills in case evaluation. Advocacy is offered through the case manager's ability to communicate clearly on behalf of the child and family.

Train community on tools and resources on community-base, mental health and wellness for children and youth.

Conduct and host training events, and different evidence-based programs year-round to children, youth, and families.

Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Ability to stay organized, assess priorities, take initiative, handle multiple assignments, meet deadlines to develop solutions to problems improve mental health and wellness for children, youth, and families.

Ability to write reports.

Knowledge of the Yakama Nation Personnel Policies.

Knowledge and proficiency in computer use.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other department staff, supervisors/managers, and the public.

Ability to meet the public and address problems, issues, and complaints tactfully, courteously, and effectively.

Knowledge of Indian Child Welfare Act and Systems of Care including Nak Nu We Sha, Children Services, and Systems of Care.

Minimum Requirements:

Minimum of an Associates Degree with a concentration in Mental Health, Chemical Dependency, Social

Work, or Public Administration; or must have at least 3 years or more of relevant work experience.

Will be asked to write small report at time of interview to demonstrate writing abilities.

Will be required to conduct and host trainings/activities on and weekends in the evenings during weekdays to ensure services are provided during non-business hours and based on community needs.

Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving permit.

Must pass a pre-employment background check.

Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.

Preferred Requirements:

Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.