Becoming part of the Sweetser family means you can make a difference in the lives of Maine children, adults, and families every day. As a nationally recognized and accredited leader, we offer competitive salaries, a wide range of benefits and the opportunity to join a passionate team of more than 700 employees.
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Residential Support Specialist - Youth
Job Code:13349 Location:Saco 04072 Department:Staff Intensive Supv FT/PT Status:Full Time Summary:
$19 per hour | $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!
Full-Time Schedule:
- Wednesday-Friday: 12:00 PM-10:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM
Make a difference. Have fun. Help kids thrive.
Do you enjoy working with kids, getting creative, and helping others feel supported? At Sweetser, you can turn those interests into a rewarding career!
As a Residential Support Specialist - Youth, youll support children navigating mental health challenges while helping them build confidence, develop life skills, and create positive experiences. No two days are exactly alike! From cooking together and planning fun activities to supporting kids through challenging moments, youll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day.
Think bowling trips, outdoor adventures, trips to the beach, arts and crafts, self-care activities, cooking, and helping kids discover new interests. Youll be more than a staff member - youll be a positive role model, a source of encouragement, and someone who helps children recognize their potential.
And the best part? You dont need years of experience to get started! Sweetser provides extensive paid training, professional development, and opportunities to grow your career in behavioral health.
Why Join Sweetser?
- $5,000 sign-on bonus!
- Start at $19 per hour, with the opportunity to advance to Residential Support Specialist II after six months and completion of required training and certifications - including a $1-per-hour increase upon successful completion of the requirements.
- Extensive paid training and certifications to help you succeed.
- Meaningful work where you can see the difference you make.
- Opportunities to grow into leadership, case management, and clinical careers.
- Full-time and per diem opportunities available.
Sweetser has been voted the top mental health nonprofit in the Biddeford/Saco area through Best of Surveys!
What Youll Do
- Be a positive role model: Build trusting relationships and help children develop confidence, independence, and healthy coping skills.
- Make every day engaging: Plan and participate in recreational activities, games, crafts, cooking, outdoor adventures, and other developmentally appropriate activities.
- Support everyday success: Help children practice life skills, work through challenges, and celebrate their progress.
- Create a safe, supportive environment: Help maintain a structured and therapeutic setting where children can learn and grow.
- Work as a team: Collaborate with coworkers, families, and other professionals to support each childs treatment goals.
- Get out into the community: Transport children to approved activities, appointments, home visits, and other scheduled outings.
What Were Looking For
You dont have to be a therapist or have years of behavioral health experience to make a difference. Were looking for people who are patient, dependable, compassionate, and excited to work with children.
You may be a great fit if you:
- Enjoy working with children and want to help them succeed.
- Can remain patient and supportive when things get challenging.
- Bring warmth, understanding, and a willingness to learn.
- Work well with a team and communicate effectively.
- Want to build a career in mental health, human services, or a related field.
Required qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid Maine drivers license and a clean driving record, as required for the position.
- Ability to speak, read, and write English fluently.
- Ability to develop a professional approach to working with children and youth.
People with lived experience in the mental health and/or substance use systems are encouraged to apply!
Where Can This Career Take You?
This is more than an entry-level job - its an opportunity to build a future.
With experience, training, and continued education, you can pursue opportunities such as:
- Residential Support Specialist - II (comes with a pay increase!)
- Supervisory and leadership positions.
- Case management roles.
- Clinical careers with the appropriate education and credentials.
Benefits That Support You
Sweetser offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, finances, and future, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus HSA/FSA options with generous employer contributions.
- Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and household members.
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.
- Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and a float day.
- Paid Family and Medical Leave.
- Employee discount program.
- Mileage reimbursement and applicable incentive and differential pay programs.
- Eligibility for annual increases and referral bonuses.
- Tuition reimbursement and educational partnership discounts.
- 30% tuition discount for UNEs online graduate programs.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility, subject to program requirements.
- Free professional development and training through the Sweetser Training Institute.
Ready to do work that matters?
If youre looking for a job where you can have fun, build meaningful connections, help children succeed, and grow your own career, wed love to meet you.
Apply today and start making a difference at Sweetser!
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