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, is competitive within the region. For instance, Lighthouse MI offers a similar position at the same rate. Additionally, Covenant House Michigan provides Residential Advisor roles at $17.00 per hour without a bachelor’s degree and $19.00 with one. Considering the average annual salary for a Human Services Worker in Royal Oak is approximately $33,101, equating to about $15.91 per hour, this rate aligns well with industry standards for similar roles in the area.

Job description:

The RHY Residential Specialist is an at-will position reporting to the Program Manager. This role involves collaborating with youth enrolled in our co-located residential programs aimed at young individuals under 18 experiencing unaccompanied homelessness. The Sanctuary program provides a 3-week residential crisis intervention for youth aged 10-17, while A Step Forward offers a transitional living environment for youth aged 16-17, allowing them to stay for up to two years. The RHY Residential Specialist will be dedicated to implementing trauma-informed care using a Positive Youth Development approach, delivering direct services to youth and their families. This position entails ensuring the observation, care, general upkeep, and safety of the shelter environment while supporting youth in achieving their goals toward safe and stable housing.

Responsibilities & Duties:

• Initiate and facilitate daily living skill development groups, interpersonal skill-building, 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 activities align with individualized treatment plans and comply with case management protocols.
• Provide feedback to the RHY management team regarding the interns, volunteers, and peer mentors assigned to the shift, as needed.
• Collaborate with the RHY management team and facilities department to maintain a safe operational environment.
• Ensure face-to-face and telephone crisis intervention is accessible 24/7/365, along with appropriate outcome planning for each caller.
• Conduct intake interviews to identify and facilitate access to agency services and referrals.
• Ensure orientation for new youth entering the RHY program is conducted respectfully, considering their educational, linguistic, and special needs.
• Consult with interdisciplinary teams to ensure compliance with evidence-based practices, program regulations, and relevant laws.
• Coordinate transportation for youth to external activities and required destinations in accordance with legal and agency policies.
• Monitor the proper usage of prescription and over-the-counter medications, along with administering first aid and responding to emergencies as needed.
• Ensure the provision of nutritious foods in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations regarding food handling, preparation, and storage.
• Maintain accurate and thorough written records of all intake processes, HMIS and service log entries, daily operational activities, including group notes, client and general log entries, contact records, and client registries.

Other Core Responsibilities:

• Maintain approval for client transportation and provide services as required.
• Ensure proper maintenance of client-related files and records.
• Consistently implement service and data collection tools.
• Adhere to punctuality and attendance policies, along with all other Lighthouse policies and procedures.
• Enforce program rules, policies, and procedures, upholding agency values to foster a safe, client-centered, and inclusive environment for clients, staff, interns, and volunteers.
• Assist with front desk operations, including phone response and crisis calls as necessary.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Lived or professional experience with individuals facing 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 comprehensive background check, including child welfare screenings and clearances.
• Reliable transportation for client transport as needed, along with necessary automobile insurance.
• Valid driver’s license; Lighthouse reserves the right to conduct driving record checks for roles where driving is essential.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Apps.
• Flexibility and ability to prioritize tasks in a dynamic environment.
• Capacity to multitask effectively in a fast-paced setting.
• Ability to work with diverse and challenging populations.
• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree or current enrollment in a human services program or related field.
• 2+ years of relevant experience with some focus on youth.
• Understanding of social constructs affecting those facing economic instability.
• Familiarity with the social services landscape in Oakland County and surrounding areas.
• Experience with HMIS.
• Ability to self-regulate and work independently while collaborating effectively with other staff.
• Innovativeness and aptitude for creative problem-solving.
• Training in Harm Reduction, Trauma-Informed Care, Housing First, and SPDAT.
• Proven effectiveness in working with racially and ethnically diverse clients and teams.
• Experience in team leadership and management.
• Skills in consensus-building and conflict resolution, with a willingness to engage in difficult conversations.
• Exceptional written and oral communication abilities.
• Capacity to listen and accept constructive feedback.
• High emotional intelligence.
• Unwavering personal integrity.
• Adaptability to work in a demanding, fast-paced, and constantly changing environment.

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and is not exhaustive of all required duties, responsibilities, and skills. Lighthouse is an equal opportunity employer, actively seeking to ensure that qualified individuals are not discriminated against based on race, creed, religion, nationality, color, veteran status, gender identity, 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 via [application link]. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Please refrain from phone or email inquiries.

Job Posting Date: Sat, 03 May 2025 22:54:35 GMT

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