Job Description

Job Location: Children Square Campus - Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Salary Range: $20.00 - $21.00 Hourly

Youth Care Specialist
Starting Pay: $20.00/hour
Shift: Tuesday–Saturday | 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Children's Square USA Campus | Council Bluffs, IA
About Child Saving Institute
Child Saving Institute’s story began in Omaha in 1892, when epidemics, poverty, and the challenges of pioneer life left many children in need of care. CSI responded by putting the well-being of children first and becoming a voice for the voiceless.
Today, CSI continues that mission by championing children and families and providing the mental, emotional, and physical spaces they need to feel empowered and thrive.
CSI is seeking compassionate, dependable, and team-oriented professionals who are passionate about supporting youth and families in our community.
About the Role
As a Lead Youth Care Specialist, you will play an important role within our Emergency Shelter program by providing leadership, mentorship, and direct support to youth experiencing crisis.
This position helps maintain a safe, structured, and trauma-informed environment while supporting youth development, coaching team members, and ensuring consistent care and program operations during assigned shifts.
Responsibilities may include:
• Supporting and mentoring Youth Care team members
• Assisting with shift coordination and daily operations
• Supporting crisis intervention and de-escalation efforts
• Monitoring and documenting youth behaviors, progress, and interventions
• Assisting with implementation of individualized service plans
• Facilitating youth engagement, life skills, and group activities
• Collaborating with clinicians, educators, families, and community partners
• Supporting compliance with agency policies, procedures, and safety protocols
What Makes CSI Special
At CSI, you will be part of a mission-driven organization that values:
• Professional growth and development
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Trauma-informed and relationship-centered care
• Meaningful work that positively impacts children and families
• Supportive leadership and ongoing learning opportunities
Who We Are Looking For
We are looking for someone who:
• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and reliability
• Communicates effectively with youth, families, and team members
• Works collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment
• Maintains composure during crisis situations
• Demonstrates sound judgment and appropriate boundaries
• Values consistency, structure, and relationship-building with youth
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
This position works in shelter, office, and community-based settings. The work environment may range from routine daily activities to high-stress crisis situations.
The position may require:
• Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, or lifting during assigned duties
• Ability to safely perform CPI-approved physical interventions as trained
• Ability to remain alert and engaged throughout assigned shifts
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Ability to safely operate a vehicle when required
• Participation in recreational, educational, and community-based youth activities
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
What You’ll Receive
CSI offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• Paid vacation and sick time accruals
• 10 paid holidays per year
• 401(k) match up to 5% with immediate vesting
• Referral bonuses
• Tuition reimbursement
• Discounted on-site childcare tuition
• Paid birthing leave up to 6 weeks
• Paid non-birthing leave up to 2 weeks
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
Be a positive influence on young lives and apply today.
Child Saving Institute is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in youth care, residential treatment, behavioral health, human services, or a related field
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Valid driver’s license with 3 points or less on driving record
• Proof of active auto insurance
• Ability to complete required agency trainings, including CPI and transportation-related trainings
Preferred

Qualifications:
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, human services, or a related field
• Experience working with at-risk youth or youth experiencing behavioral or emotional challenges
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, behavior management, and child development
• Previous leadership or mentoring experience