Youth Support Advocate

Job DetailsLevel

• EntryJob
• Location:
• New
• Bedford
• FRS and
• FC -
• New
• Bedford,
• MA 02740Position
• Type:
• Part
• TimeEducation
• Level:
• High
• School
• Diploma /
• GEDSalary
• Range: $20.00 - $20.00
• HourlyTravel
• Percentage:
• NoneJob
• Shift:
• Evening (after 5 pm)Job
• Category: Emergency ShelterPosition Overview The Youth Support Advocate (YSA) provides direct care, supervision, and support to children residing in an EEC-funded emergency shelter. Working under Program Leadership, this role ensures the safety, well-being, and positive development of children experiencing crisis. This is an ideal opportunity for a compassionate, patient, and energetic professional who is committed to trauma-informed care and making a meaningful impact.

Schedule

• Thursday, 5 pm - 1 am Friday, 5 pm - 1 am Saturday, 9 am - 9 pm Key Responsibilities Provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for children in care Maintain required staff-to-child ratios in accordance with EEC guidelines Build positive, supportive relationships and serve as a role model Supervise children at all times to ensure safety and program compliance Support activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meals, and routines Facilitate social, recreational, and life skills development Complete intake and discharge documentation accurately Administer and document medications per agency policy (as applicable) Respond effectively to crises, including medical emergencies Maintain accurate records and uphold strict confidentiality standards Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development Follow all organizational policies and regulatory requirements (EEC,
• DCF)
• Core
• Competencies
• Child-Centered
• Care:
• Compassionate, patient, and respectful approach
• Safety &
• Awareness:
• Strong supervision and attention to detail
• Communication:
• Clear, professional, and effective
• Teamwork:
• Collaborative and reliable
• Adaptability:
• Calm and flexible in high-stress environments
• Cultural
• Competence:
• Inclusive and respectful of diverse backgrounds
• Professionalism: Maintains ethical standards and confidentiality Why Join Us? Make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families Gain hands-on experience in trauma-informed and residential care Opportunities for growth within human service QualificationsRequired Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent Minimum 1 year of experience working with children or vulnerable youth (residential, foster care, emergency settings, or similar) Knowledge of trauma-informed care and child development Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills Ability to remain calm and respond effectively in crisis situations Willingness to work a flexible schedule Ability to complete required trainings (CPR, First Aid, SafetyCare) Successful completion of background checks per EEC requirements

Preferred Qualifications

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Education, or related field Experience in child welfare or residential care settings Experience with de-escalation, conflict resolution, or restorative practices Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record Bilingual/multilingual skill Working Conditions & Physical Requirements Active role requiring standing, walking, bending, and participation in activities Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed Work in a 24/7 residential setting (indoor and outdoor responsibilities) Exposure to varying noise levels and weather conditions Participation in routine household tasks (cleaning, organizing, etc.) Must maintain required certifications (CPR, First Aid, SafetyCare) High emotional awareness and resilience required due to crisis-related work Note: Staff are not authorized to use physical restraint; safety is maintained through de-escalation and trauma-informed practices.