Youth Specialist

Youth specialist – become the difference that changes a life

A calling, not just a job

Are you someone who believes every young person—no matter their challenges—deserves safety, dignity, and the chance to thrive? Do you want your work to matter in a real and lasting way?

At Spectrum, we’re searching for a committed, compassionate Youth Specialist to join our Youth Residential Program in the Detroit area. This is a hands-on, heart‑centered role where you’ll guide, mentor, and support teenage boys, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Your impact begins each afternoon as you provide stability, encouragement, and a consistent presence during the most important hours of their day.

Why your work matters

For many of the youth we serve, you may be the first person to believe in their potential. You’ll model respect, help them build life skills, create a sense of safety, and show them that their voices and futures truly matter.

If you are ready to serve with purpose, compassion, and resilience, this is where you are meant to be.

About spectrum

For 50 years, Spectrum has stood on one simple truth

Every person deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to grow.

More than 1,450 children, teens, and adults across Michigan rely on Spectrum programs each day for support with intellectual and developmental disabilities, emotional or behavioral challenges, medical fragility, or experiences of abuse or neglect.

We walk beside them—steadily, respectfully, and with unwavering belief in their worth.

What you’ll do

As a Youth Specialist, you will

• Provide daily care, coaching, supervision, and emotional support
• Build trusting relationships with residents
• Help create routines that nurture safety, independence, and confidence
• Serve as a positive role model who leads with patience and understanding
• Support youth with diverse needs in a structured, therapeutic environment

Weekend availability required

What We Offer

• We care for our staff the way we care for our youth—with dignity, respect, and support.
• BlueCare Network Medical & Rx
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Dental & Vision
• 403(b) with employer match
• $25,000 Life Insurance
• Short‑Term Disability
• 12 Paid Holidays (including Juneteenth)
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Training
• Advancement Opportunities

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• Reliable transportation
• Valid Michigan Driver’s License with acceptable driving record
• Successful MDHHS and State Police clearances
• Physical exam within one year of hire and a negative TB test

Your next step: Answer the call

If you are ready to use your strengths to lift up young people who need someone to believe in them—someone they can count on—we want to meet you.

Step into a role where your presence can change the entire direction of a life.

Apply today. The youth we serve are waiting for someone just like you.