Youth Worker

Job Description

JOB SUMMARYPerforms shelter and crisis intakes to identify appropriate services and safety measures. Orients youth to agency policies, programs, and expectations. Monitors youth, participates in recreational and educational activities, supervises daily hygiene and chores, prepares meals, and provides crisis intervention.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSAssociates degree, or the equivalent number of undergraduate hours (60 credits/hour), from an accredited college or university, OR an equivalent combination of related education and direct client care experience in a human services-related position that is equivalent to two (2) years of full-time experience.

Must receive a verified negative test result on a mandatory drug test before starting in this position. Will be subject to random alcohol and drug testing. May be subject to post accident and reasonable suspicion alcohol and drug testing.

Due to the nature of this position, the successful applicant must pass a required background check through fingerprinting and enrollment in the continuous RAP Back (Record of Arrest and Prosecution Back) program in accordance with current County Human Resources policy requirements.

A valid Driver’s License accepted by the State of Utah is required at the time of hire. A valid Driver’s License issued by the State of Utah must be obtained within six (6) months of hire to operate a County vehicle.

Swing shift Saturday and Sunday 2:00 pm - 12:00 am.

Preference given to those currently working in Youth Services.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS• Provides supervision of programs for youth and addresses potentially dangerous situations, • Maintains professional demeanor, complies with agency policies and procedures, and adheres to Pledge of Confidentiality and DHHS Provider Code of Conduct.• Assists with daily hygiene, completing daily chores, and maintaining a healthy living environment for youth. • Plans and facilitate recreational activities and skills groups. Follows program schedules and plan interactive activities that support youth’s physical and emotional health.

• Documents all pertinent information in client's online records such as intake and release records, daily progress notes, client visits, school attendance, medication administration, medical appointments, etc. • Administers medication as prescribed and ensure that medication is secured per agency policy.• Transports youth to school, medical appointments, and off-campus activities.• Coordinates services with guardians/caseworkers, schedule therapy, and refer to community resources.• Searches youth and their belongings for weapons or contraband and confiscate unapproved or illegal materials if needed.• Provides crisis intervention, including approved verbal de-escalation and physical hold techniques if needed. Engages and mentors’ youth using a trauma-informed approach. • Interfaces with law enforcement, Division of Child and Family Services, Juvenile Justice Youth Services or other referring parties and community partners.• Provides information and assistance to clients and the public regarding community resources.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSA)Knowledge of:• Working with children from diverse backgrounds• Trauma-informed care practices• Behavior management and crisis intervention methods• Child and adolescent development• Computer and documentation skills• Laws and agencies related to youth intervention and child protection

Skills and Abilities to:• Offer culturally sensitive care for youth in a residential setting• Use good judgement to respond effectively in crisis situations • Communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing• Interact professionally with the public and community partners• Receive and appropriately retain confidential information

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTSWill work with youth and deal with certain working conditions that may cause exposure to biohazards such as human waste and vomit. Must be able to place youth in physical holds and lift up to 50 pounds.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING THIS POSITIONRequired to work holidays as scheduled and attend training that may fall outside of regularly scheduled hours.