What are the responsibilities and job description for the In-Home Mental Health Support Specialist position at Lodestar Children's Services?
Do you want to make a meaningful impact?
Lodestar is seeking passionate, empathetic, and inspiring individuals to join our team in supporting youth ages 5-21 who are navigating mental health challenges. Our mission is to create lasting, positive change by equipping the young people we serve with lifelong skills all while fostering their connection to the community.
We’re looking for team members who are strong critical thinkers, effective problem solvers, and excellent communicators who thrive in collaborative environments.
See what our employees have to say about working at Lodestar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUOry0iDsT4
Description: Support children in achieving their fullest potential as a 1:1 worker in home and community settings. This role takes place across various environments where the child lives, learns, plays, and interacts-including homes and community spaces. Responsibilities include helping children build essential life skills, teaching individualized coping strategies (such as self-care routines and mindfulness techniques), and enhancing communication within their families and broader support systems.
Qualifications: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in progress or completed; experience in human services is preferred. A valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and current auto insurance are required. Candidates must also pass all state-mandated background checks, including fingerprinting and clearance through the State Child Abuse Registry.
Job Type: Part-time/Per-diem
Schedule: Hours are based on the needs of the families and service providers. The ideal candidate is available two or three days during the week from the hours of 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM, as most clients are school-aged and typically available after school hours. Flexible scheduling makes this position a great fit for individuals attending school or working other jobs. Weekend availability is a plus, but not required.
Location: We provide services throughout Long Island, Queens, and Brooklyn. We are currently hiring workers across most of these areas to meet the needs of families in various communities. While Lodestar makes every effort to match workers with clients in their preferred locations, placements may vary based on availability and client needs.
Salary: Starting pay ranges from $24.00 to $27.50 per service hour during a two-month probationary period. After successful completion of the probationary period, there is an opportunity to earn $28.50 to $32.00 per service hour, based on performance and services provided. Salary is reflected in a per-diem model.
Applicants with a Master’s degree and at least one year of relevant experience in children’s mental health, addiction, foster care, child welfare, juvenile justice, or related human services fields are eligible for a higher pay rate of $46.00 per hour after successfully completing the two-month probationary period.
Your initial hourly rate will be determined by your educational level. Following the probationary period, your pay rate may increase based on the types of services you provide. The services you are eligible to offer—and therefore your pay—will be aligned with your education and experience in accordance with state guidelines.
Why Join Lodestar?
- Make a lasting impact on children and families
- Supportive, mission-driven culture
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Flexible scheduling and meaningful work
- Opportunities for growth within the organization
Compensation:
- Starting Pay: $24–$27.50/hr during 2-month probationary period
- Post-Probation: $28.50–$32/hr (based on performance and services provided)
- Advanced Rate: $46/hr for Master’s-level professionals with at least one year of experience in children’s mental health, foster care, juvenile justice, or related fields
Compensation is per-diem and based on service hours provided
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (needs vehicle for transportation) Drivers license is required for Long Island providers.
Work Location: On the road
Visit www.lodestarcs.org to learn more.
Lodestar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Due to the number of expected applicants, not all applicants will receive a response.
Resumes, along with a cover letter, may be submitted directly to Danielle Weill, Program Director. Dweill@lodestarcs.org
Pay: $24.00 - $46.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: On the road
Salary : $24 - $28
