Youth Care Specialist III

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant.

LSF is seeking a talented Youth Care Specialist III who wants to make an impact in the lives of others.

Purpose and Impact:

The Youth Care Specialist III will be responsible for the shift lead worker responsibilities of the program. This position monitors daily activities and provides oversight support to Youth Care Specialists II. YCS III is responsible to fulfill all job functions of the YCS II level position as necessary/required. This is a direct service delivery position. This position is not eligible for remote or hybrid work.

Essential Functions:

• Monitors daily operation of shelter functions.
• May assist in preparation of staff schedules.
• May assist with preparation of Staff Meeting agenda
• Monitors scheduling of shelter activities.
• Reviews log reports and documentation.
• Ensures security of facilities and access.
• Assists with the maintenance of office supplies, food, and other items needed for program care.
• Assures continuity of transferring client information, shift to shift, and shift to clinical.
• Participates in various in-service training sessions.
• Attends staff meetings, as directed.
• Assists with supervision of clients, as needed.
• Completes required paperwork.
• Reviews all Security equipment
• Schedules all inspections e.g. Fire, Health, automobiles, vehicles
• Provides reports about program progress to Program Manager.
• Performs related work as required.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to remain physically active throughout the workday, including frequent walking, standing, bending, stooping, and lifting.
• Ability to safely and effectively intervene in crisis situations, including physically guiding or restraining youth when necessary and appropriate, following agency policies and training.
• Capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to move quickly and respond promptly to emergency situations.
• Regularly required to talk and hear; must be able to communicate effectively with youth and team members.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment, including computers and phones, as needed for documentation and communication.
• Must be able to work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather.
• Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to ensure the safety of youth in care.
• Must have a high level of energy. Must have full physical capabilities such as lifting, bending, cooking, cleaning, and using the telephone. Ability to transport youth in the program vehicle and accompany youth on field trips/recreational outings.

Education:
High school diploma/equivalency required.

Experience:
Two years' experience in direct care service delivery. Team lead experience preferred.

Skills:
Dependability, discretion, and good judgment are essential. This individual must possess the ability to establish effective relationships with clients, co-workers and the general public. Must possess a valid driver's license.

Other:
Must demonstrate sensitivity to our service population's cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Reports to Program Manager.
• Staff are required to attend a mandatory monthly staff meeting
• Team player with co-workers and administrators.
• Ensures quality care for clients in a safe, secure environment.
• Adheres to licensing and quality assurance standards of state, federal and local governing agencies.
• Ensures that Youth Care Specialists II provide effective behavior management and supervision of clients during activities.
• Adheres to all policies and procedures.

Why work for LSF?

LSF offers 60 programs across the state of Florida serving a wide range of populations in need. Mission Driven staff members become part of the LSF community while transforming the lives of those in need. Our staff additionally find growth opportunities as they explore areas of interest within the organization.

Amazing benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Telehealth (24/7 online access to Doctors)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employer paid life insurance (1X salary)
• 13 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday
• Generous PTO policy (starting at 16 working days a year)
• Note: Head Start employees paid time off and holiday schedule may differ
• 403(b) Retirement plan with 3% discretionary employer match OR 3% student loan repayment reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement

LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Lutheran Services Florida is mandated to perform background screenings for employment in accordance with the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse as outlined in Section 435.12, Florida Statutes. Additionally, pursuant to House Bill 531 (2025), Lutheran Services Florida must ensure that all job vacancy postings and advertisements include a clear and conspicuous link to the AHCA Clearinghouse website and its requirements. For more information on background screening requirements please visit:

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.