Runaway Homeless Youth Residential Specialist-Lighthouse

Job Description

Job Title: Runaway Homeless Youth Residential Specialist

Company: Lighthouse

Location: Royal Oak, MI

Pay: $16.1 per hour

AI Pay Analysis: The hourly rate of $16.10 for a “Runaway Homeless Youth Residential Specialist” in Royal Oak, MI, falls below the typical industry standards for similar roles, which often range from $18 to $25 per hour depending on experience and qualifications. Considering that positions in social services, particularly those dealing with at-risk youth, often require specific skills and can be demanding, the offered rate may not adequately compensate for the emotional and professional responsibilities involved. Regionally, the cost of living and the demand for such services may further suggest that this rate is not competitive, potentially affecting recruitment and retention in the sector.

Job description:
The RHY Residential Specialist is a crucial at-will position reporting to the Program Manager. This role involves working directly with youth enrolled in our co-located residential programs, designed for individuals under the age of 18 who are experiencing unaccompanied homelessness. The Sanctuary program provides a 3-week residential crisis intervention for youth aged 10-17, while A Step Forward offers a transitional living opportunity for those aged 16-17, allowing them to stay for up to two years. The RHY Residential Specialist is dedicated to implementing trauma-informed care within a Positive Youth Development framework, delivering direct services to youth and families. Key responsibilities include ensuring the observation and care, general upkeep, and safety of the shelter environment, all while supporting youth in their pursuit of safe, stable housing.

Key Responsibilities:
– Initiate and facilitate groups focused on daily living skills, interpersonal skills development, meal preparation, chore completion, and recreational activities.
– Coordinate and monitor shift activities among youth mentors, volunteers, and interns to actively engage youth in daily operations.
– Ensure that daily activities are monitored in accordance with the individualized treatment plan established for each youth.
– Provide feedback as requested to the RHY management team regarding the performance of interns, volunteers, and peer mentors assigned to the shift.
– Collaborate with the RHY management team and facilities department to maintain a safe physical environment.
– Conduct face-to-face and telephone crisis interventions 24/7/365 and implement appropriate outcome planning for each caller.
– Perform intake interviews to assess and connect youth with agency services and coordinate necessary referrals.
– Deliver orientation to youth entering the RHY program, tailoring the approach to meet the educational, language, and special needs of each youth and/or family.
– Consult with interdisciplinary teams to address youth needs, ensuring compliance with evidence-based practices, program regulations, and applicable laws.
– Organize transportation for youth to external activities and required destinations, adhering to legal regulations and agency policies.
– Administer and monitor prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as first aid and emergency procedures when necessary.
– Ensure that food provisions comply with federal, state, and local regulations regarding handling, preparation, and storage.
– Maintain thorough and accurate written records of all intake processes, HMIS and service log entries, daily operations including group notes, client interactions, and general logs.

Core Responsibilities:
– Maintain approval to transport clients and provide necessary transportation services.
– Ensure that client-related files and records are properly maintained.
– Consistently implement service and data collection tools.
– Adhere to attendance and punctuality policies, as well as all other Lighthouse policies and procedures.
– Enforce program rules, policies, and procedures to uphold agency values, ensuring a safe, client-centered, and inclusive environment for clients, staff, interns, and volunteers.
– Assist with front-desk operations by answering phones and addressing crisis calls as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:
– Lived or professional experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or significant levels of poverty in the United States.
– High School Diploma.
– 1-2 years of experience in a role related to human/social services.
– Ability to pass a thorough background check, including child welfare screenings and clearances.
– Reliable transportation for client transport needs, including maintenance of automobile insurance.
– Valid driver’s license; the organization reserves the right to conduct a driving record check for positions where driving is essential.
– Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Apps.
– Flexibility and capacity to prioritize tasks in a dynamic environment.
– Strong multitasking capabilities in a fast-paced setting.
– Comfort in working with diverse and challenging populations.
– Availability to work evenings and/or weekends.

Preferred Qualifications:
– An associate degree or current enrollment in a human services program or related field.
– 2+ years of experience in roles directly or indirectly related to human/social services, with youth-focused experience.
– Understanding of the social dynamics affecting those facing economic instability.
– Familiarity with the social services landscape in Oakland County and neighboring areas.
– Experience with HMIS.
– Ability to self-regulate and work independently while collaborating with staff members.
– A proactive attitude towards innovation and creative problem-solving.
– Training in Harm Reduction, Trauma Informed Care, Housing First, and SPDAT.
– Proven effectiveness in working with racially and ethnically diverse clients and teams.
– Experience in managing and leading teams.
– Ability to build consensus, resolve conflicts, and engage in difficult conversations as needed.
– Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
– Capacity to listen and accept constructive feedback.
– High emotional intelligence and unwavering personal integrity.
– Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, and constantly evolving environment.

This job description outlines the general nature and level of duties performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and skills required. Lighthouse is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any qualified individuals on the basis of race, creed, religion, national origin, color, veteran status, gender identity, sex, age, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, income, weight, or any other legally protected category.

Candidates should submit a cover letter and resume online. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Please refrain from making phone or email inquiries.

Job Posting Date: Sat, 01 Feb 2025 23:38:07 GMT

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