Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist

Overview

Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist

Pay: $23.00-$24.92/hour

Bonus: $4,000 sign on paid 50% at 6months and 50%  at 12 months

Make a Meaningful Impact Every Day

Stetson School is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional II – Senior Child Care Specialist to play a vital role in supporting youth in a structured, therapeutic residential setting. In this position, you will help create a safe, supportive, and growth-focused environment where students can build life skills, develop positive behaviors, and achieve personal success.

This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about working with youth, thrive in a team-oriented environment, and are committed to making a difference through consistency, leadership, and care.

Benefits for Full-time employees: 

• Health Insurance: Offered through Blue Cross Blue Shield, with generous company contribution.
• Enhanced Retirement Plan:25% - 33% Employer match based on tenure. 
• Student Loan Assistance: Consolidation, counseling, & limited employer contribution!
• Discounted Tuition with College & University Partnerships!
• Tuition Assistance: Reimbursed or prepaid college coursework!
• Home Mortgage Initiative: Favorable down payment (3-5%), reduced closing costs co-paid by Seven Hills!

Work-Life Balance:

• Generous Accrued Paid Vacation:3 weeks in your first year!
• Vacation Cash-Out Option
• 3 Paid Personal Days
• 11 Paid Holidays 
• Accrued Paid Sick Time

Why Join Stetson School?

At Stetson School, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to transforming lives. You’ll gain valuable experience, build meaningful connections, and contribute to a supportive environment where both students and staff can grow and succeed.

If you’re ready to make a difference and take on a rewarding, hands-on role, we encourage you to apply.

You can also see an overview of the amazing work our organization does with this video: 

https://www.sevenhills.org/affiliates/stetson-school/

Responsibilities

Student Care & Support

• Ensure all essential student needs are met each shift in accordance with program standards
• Model and reinforce positive behavioral, social, and daily living skills
• Support students’ emotional growth, self-regulation, and social development using trauma-informed practices
• Maintain professional boundaries while building supportive, respectful relationships

Daily Structure & Supervision

• Provide continuous supervision to ensure student safety and engagement
• Maintain structured daily routines and ensure participation in scheduled activities
• Conduct regular room checks and monitor student whereabouts
• Transport students to appointments and approved activities as needed

Behavior Management

• Respond to student behavior using approved behavior management techniques, including CPI strategies
• Utilize de-escalation methods and apply interventions when necessary
• Process incidents with students and support learning and growth following behavioral challenges

Recreation & Skill Development

• Plan and lead structured recreational and skill-building activities
• Facilitate group programming and support clinical and social development goals
• Serve as a positive role model in all interactions and activities

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete all required documentation accurately and on time, including shift notes, incident reports, and behavioral tracking
• Maintain records related to assigned students, including progress reports and program documentation

Health, Safety & Environment

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized living environment
• Support students in personal hygiene, housekeeping, and daily living tasks
• Administer medication as trained and directed
• Conduct safety checks, drills, and inspections as required

Shift Leadership

• Lead shift operations, ensuring routines and responsibilities are completed
• Mentor and support new staff members
• Serve as team-in-charge when assigned, including communication with supervisors and on-call staff
• Oversee program resources, including student funds and activity budgets

Skills & Attributes

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations
• Commitment to teamwork, accountability, and professionalism
• Understanding of trauma-informed care and youth development principles
• Ability to balance structure, empathy, and consistency in a therapeutic setting

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in a human services-related field preferred
• 0–3 years of experience working with youth or in human services
• Valid driver’s license required