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, appears to be on the lower end of the pay scale for similar roles in the nonprofit and social services sectors. Generally, compensation for residential specialists varies widely depending on experience, certifications, and specific job duties, often ranging from $15 to $20 per hour or more in urban areas with higher living costs. In Michigan, the average hourly wage for positions focused on youth support and social services is typically around $17 to $25 per hour, suggesting that $16.10 may not be fully competitive, particularly for experienced candidates. Additionally, the job often requires significant emotional labor and resilience, indicating that better compensation could attract higher-quality applicants. Overall, the rate should be reevaluated to align more closely with industry norms and the financial needs of professionals in this challenging field.

Job description:
The RHY Residential Specialist is an at-will position that reports to the Program Manager. This role entails working with youth enrolled in our co-located residential programs specifically designed for individuals under 18 who are experiencing unaccompanied homelessness. The Sanctuary program serves as a three-week residential crisis intervention facility for youth aged 10 to 17, while A Step Forward provides transitional living support for youth aged 16 to 17, allowing residents to stay for up to two years. The RHY Residential Specialist is dedicated to implementing trauma-informed care through a Positive Youth Development approach to deliver direct services to youth and families. This specialist will be responsible for the observation, care, general upkeep, and safety of the shelter environment while supporting youth in their pursuit of stable housing.

Responsibilities & Duties:
– Initiate and facilitate daily living skill development groups, interpersonal skill development, meal preparation and service, chore completion, and recreational activities.
– Coordinate and monitor shift activities among youth mentors, volunteers, and interns to engage youth in daily operations.
– Ensure that daily activities and interactions comply with case management and clinical individualized treatment plans for each youth.
– Provide feedback to the RHY management team regarding interns, volunteers, and peer mentors assigned to the shift, upon request.
– Collaborate with the RHY management team and facilities department to maintain a safe and orderly physical environment.
– Conduct and ensure availability of face-to-face and/or telephone crisis intervention 24/7, with appropriate outcome planning for each caller.
– Conduct intake interviews to identify and coordinate access to agency services and referrals.
– Ensure that youth entering the RHY program receive an orientation that respects their educational, language, and special needs.
– Consult with interdisciplinary teams to ensure that youth needs are met in compliance with evidence-based practices and relevant program regulations.
– Coordinate transportation for youth to outside activities and required destinations, adhering to legal regulations and agency policies.
– Provide and monitor the proper use of prescription and over-the-counter medications, first aid, and emergency procedures as needed.
– Ensure the provision of appropriate food in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations surrounding food handling, meal preparation, and storage.
– Maintain accurate and comprehensive written records of all activities, including intake completion, HMIS and service log entries, daily operational activities, client registries, and contact records.

Other Core Responsibilities:
– Maintain approval to transport clients and provide transportation services as needed.
– Ensure the proper maintenance of client-related files and records.
– 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 while upholding agency values to maintain a safe, client-centered, and inclusive environment for clients, staff, interns, and volunteers.
– Assist with front-desk operations, including answering phones and handling crisis calls as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:
– Lived or professional experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty in the U.S.
– High School Diploma.
– 1-2 years of experience in a role directly or indirectly related to human or social services.
– Ability to pass a rigorous background check, including child welfare screenings and clearances.
– Reliable transportation for client transport as needed and maintenance of automobile insurance.
– Valid driver’s license; Lighthouse reserves the right to require a driving record check for any position where driving is essential.
– Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Apps.
– Flexibility and the capacity to prioritize tasks in a rapidly changing environment.
– Ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.
– Experience working with a challenging and diverse population.
– Availability to work evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications:
– Associate degree or current enrollment in a human services program or related field.
– Over 2 years of experience in a role related to human or social services, including some experience with youth.
– Understanding of the social constructs impacting individuals experiencing economic instability.
– Familiarity with the social services landscape in Oakland County and surrounding areas.
– Experience with HMIS (Homeless Management Information Systems).
– Ability to self-regulate and work independently while collaborating with other staff.
– An innovative mindset with a capacity for creative problem-solving.
– Training in Harm Reduction, Trauma-Informed Care, Housing First, and SPDAT.
– Proven ability to work effectively with racially and ethnically diverse clients and teams.
– Experience in managing and leading teams.
– Capacity to build consensus and resolve conflict; willingness to engage in difficult conversations.
– Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
– Ability to listen and accept constructive feedback.
– High emotional intelligence.
– Unwavering personal integrity.
– Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, and ever-changing environment.

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this position. It should not be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Lighthouse is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any qualified individual based on race, creed, religion, national origin, color, veteran status, gender or gender identity, sex, age, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, income, weight, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Applicants are encouraged to 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 regarding this position.

Job Posting Date: Thu, 03 Apr 2025 22:05:22 GMT

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