Youth Specialist – Education and Medication Support

Job Summary

The Youth Specialist – Education and Medication Support is a direct care role focused on supporting youth during morning routines, medication administration, and the start of the school day. This position works within the staff-to-youth ratio while taking the lead on morning medications and supporting the education program.

This role helps set the tone for the day. Youth may enter the morning with varying levels of energy, motivation, or stress. The Youth Specialist provides structure, consistency, and support so youth can move through their routines and into the classroom in a manageable and supportive way.

Key Responsibilities

• Education Support
• Work directly with youth during the school block, both one-on-one and in small groups
• Help youth get started, stay engaged, and complete assignments
• Break down tasks when school feels overwhelming
• Support emotional regulation in the classroom through redirection, breaks, and encouragement
• Communicate with the Education Coordinator regarding student progress and needs
  
  

Morning Medication Support

• Administer or assist with morning medications in accordance with program policy
• Ensure medications are given safely, accurately, and on time
• Maintain clear and timely documentation
• Monitor for any concerns related to medication and report as needed
  
  

Milieu and Daily Support

• Remain active on the unit as part of the staff-to-youth ratio
• Support morning routines including hygiene and transitions into the school day
• Build consistent and respectful relationships with youth
• Model calm communication and appropriate boundaries
  
  

Behavioral Support

• Use trauma-informed approaches aligned with ARC and the Nurtured Heart Approach
• Respond early to signs of escalation
• Utilize de-escalation strategies and follow crisis intervention protocols when needed
  
  

Documentation and Communication

• Complete shift notes, medication logs, and incident reports as required
• Communicate clearly with team members across shifts
  
  

Qualifications

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Associate’s degree in a medical field, Human Services, Education, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field
  
  

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with children or adolescents, which may include:
  
  

  o Paraprofessional or classroom aide

  o Teaching assistant

  o Direct care staff in residential or group home settings

  o Behavioral health technician or mental health worker

  o Youth mentor or after-school program staff

  o Special education support roles

  o ABA technician or behavioral support roles

  o School-based support positions

• Experience with medication administration in a mental health, residential, or healthcare setting is strongly preferred
• Willingness to be trained in medication administration is required
  
  

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with youth who have emotional or behavioral needs
• Ability to support both academic engagement and daily routines
• Ability to remain calm and consistent during high-stress moments
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
  
  

Personal Attributes Anticipated

• Mission-Driven: Demonstrates a deep commitment to the mission and values of Catholic Charities of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties, and incorporates them into daily work
• Collaborative Team Player: Thrives in a team environment, contributing positively and working effectively with others to achieve shared goals
• Solution-Oriented Problem Solver: Proactively identifies challenges and develops practical, innovative solutions to address them
• Culturally Sensitive: Demonstrates awareness and respect for the cultural diversity of both colleagues and clients, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment
• Integrity: Upholds a strong moral character, consistently doing what is right, and responsibly using time and resources to serve the organization’s mission
  
  

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This position is on-site and may not be eligible for remote work
• Attendance at occasional meetings or events outside regular business hours is required
• The role involves working with sensitive or potentially traumatic information and direct interaction with individuals or families in crisis
• Physical requirements include frequent use of hands for handling objects, tools, or controls; talking, bending, squatting, twisting, climbing, kneeling, reaching, and occasionally lifting or carrying up to 30 pounds
• Vision requirements include close-up work, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus
• The work environment may involve varying degrees of physical discomfort and occasional loud noise
• Occasional driving, potentially with Clients, during the workday may be needed for operational purposes
• Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions
  
  

Comments

This job description is intended to outline the essential functions, general supplementary tasks, and key requirements for successful performance in this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Additional tasks may be assigned, and management reserves the right to modify duties as needed.