Children’s Home Association of Illinois (CHAIL) is the largest social service agency for youth and families in downstate Illinois. The services we provide don’t just impact the individual child, they create positive ripple effectives within their immediate family, neighborhood, community, and world by providing an opportunity to thrive.

Our residential programs are growing, and our agency is looking to add kind, empathetic, and dedicated mental health and social work experts to our team.

Job Function:
Children who enter into CHAIL’s residential programs are in need of clinical treatment. While Youth Care Specialists are not required to have a therapeutic background, they must demonstrate the ability to bring a therapeutic and empathetic approach to their interaction with clients.

This position is a direct service role that works directly with children in our care. Youth Care Specialists are responsible for helping children accomplish day to day tasks, make progress toward their behavior treatment goals, and working alongside a clinical team of therapists and behavior specialists to ensure kids are progressing through our treatment program.

Job Description:
The ideal candidate for the position of Youth Care Specialist is someone who displays an intense passion for helping children and young adults reach their full potential. This person should bring a heightened level of empathy, kindness, and patience to their work. They should be excited at the opportunity to work with children, committed to regularly engaging and interacting with our clients (sharing in their interests, hobbies, sports, etc.), and passionate about being a positive role model for the children in our care.

This position requires candidates to have a valid driver's license and transport children to and from activities.

This position requires candidates to sometimes work holidays and weekends.

This position requires candidates to be available for first shifts (7 AM – 3 PM) and second shifts (3 PM – 11 PM).

Qualifications:
Education

• Bachelor’s in Social Services

OR

• Bachelor’s degree in any other field with 2 years experience in a clinical mental health or human services facility

OR

• High school diploma with 5 years experience in a clinical mental health or human services facility

Requirements

• Must have a valid Illinois driver’s license & vehicle
• Must be at least 21 years of age

Preferred requirements

• Experience working with children who have experience trauma in the form of neglect, abuse, sexual violence, etc.
• Ability to implement de-escalation trainings including physical restraint when necessary (training provided upon hire)
• Physical and emotional stamina to effectively handle job related issues and stress

Benefits & Pay:

• PTO (paid-time-off) accrual 3 weeks first year (full-time)
• 10 paid holidays
• Sick Leave accrual 12 days per year (full-time)
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401K with company match
• Company paid life insurance, STD and LTD
• Supplemental life insurance