What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist position at Seven Hills Foundation?
Overview
Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist
Pay: $23.00-$24.92/hour
New Hire Sign-on Bonus: $4,000 paid 50% at 6 months and 50% at 12 months
Make a Meaningful Impact Every Day
Stetson School is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional II – Senior Child Care Specialist to play a vital role in supporting youth in a structured, therapeutic residential setting. In this position, you will help create a safe, supportive, and growth-focused environment where students can build life skills, develop positive behaviors, and achieve personal success.
This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about working with youth, thrive in a team-oriented environment, and are committed to making a difference through consistency, leadership, and care.
Benefits for Full-time employees:
- Health Insurance: Offered through Blue Cross Blue Shield, with generous company contribution.
- Enhanced Retirement Plan: 25% - 33% Employer match based on tenure.
- Student Loan Assistance: Consolidation, counseling, & limited employer contribution!
- Discounted Tuition with College & University Partnerships!
- Tuition Assistance: Reimbursed or prepaid college coursework!
- Home Mortgage Initiative: Favorable down payment (3-5%), reduced closing costs co-paid by Seven Hills!
Work-Life Balance:
- Generous Accrued Paid Vacation: 3 weeks in your first year!
- Vacation Cash-Out Option
- 3 Paid Personal Days
- 11 Paid Holidays
- Accrued Paid Sick Time
Why Join Stetson School?
At Stetson School, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to transforming lives. You’ll gain valuable experience, build meaningful connections, and contribute to a supportive environment where both students and staff can grow and succeed.
If you’re ready to make a difference and take on a rewarding, hands-on role, we encourage you to apply.
You can also see an overview of the amazing work our organization does with this video:
https://www.sevenhills.org/affiliates/stetson-school/
Responsibilities
Student Care & Support
- Ensure all essential student needs are met each shift in accordance with program standards
- Model and reinforce positive behavioral, social, and daily living skills
- Support students’ emotional growth, self-regulation, and social development using trauma-informed practices
- Maintain professional boundaries while building supportive, respectful relationships
Daily Structure & Supervision
- Provide continuous supervision to ensure student safety and engagement
- Maintain structured daily routines and ensure participation in scheduled activities
- Conduct regular room checks and monitor student whereabouts
- Transport students to appointments and approved activities as needed
Behavior Management
- Respond to student behavior using approved behavior management techniques, including CPI strategies
- Utilize de-escalation methods and apply interventions when necessary
- Process incidents with students and support learning and growth following behavioral challenges
Recreation & Skill Development
- Plan and lead structured recreational and skill-building activities
- Facilitate group programming and support clinical and social development goals
- Serve as a positive role model in all interactions and activities
Documentation & Reporting
- Complete all required documentation accurately and on time, including shift notes, incident reports, and behavioral tracking
- Maintain records related to assigned students, including progress reports and program documentation
Health, Safety & Environment
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized living environment
- Support students in personal hygiene, housekeeping, and daily living tasks
- Administer medication as trained and directed
- Conduct safety checks, drills, and inspections as required
Shift Leadership
- Lead shift operations, ensuring routines and responsibilities are completed
- Mentor and support new staff members
- Serve as team-in-charge when assigned, including communication with supervisors and on-call staff
- Oversee program resources, including student funds and activity budgets
Skills & Attributes
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations
- Commitment to teamwork, accountability, and professionalism
- Understanding of trauma-informed care and youth development principles
- Ability to balance structure, empathy, and consistency in a therapeutic setting
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in a human services-related field preferred
- 0–3 years of experience working with youth or in human services
- Valid driver’s license required