Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist

Overview  

Direct Support Professional II - Senior Child Care Specialist

Pay: $23.00-$24.92/hour

New Hire Sign-on Bonus: $4,000 paid 50% at 6 months and 50% at 12 months

Make a Meaningful Impact Every Day Stetson School is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional II – Senior Child Care Specialist to play a vital role in supporting youth in a structured, therapeutic residential setting. In this position, you will help create a safe, supportive, and growth-focused environment where students can build life skills, develop positive behaviors, and achieve personal success.

This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about working with youth, thrive in a team-oriented environment, and are committed to making a difference through consistency, leadership, and care.

 

Benefits for Full-time employees:  

• Health Insurance: Offered through Blue Cross Blue Shield , with generous company contribution.

• Enhanced Retirement Plan: 25% - 33% Employer match based on tenure. 

• Student Loan Assistance: Consolidation, counseling, & limited employer contribution!

• Discounted Tuition with College & University Partnerships!

• Tuition Assistance: Reimbursed or prepaid college coursework!

• Home Mortgage Initiative: Favorable down payment ( 3-5%) , reduced closing costs co-paid by Seven Hills!

Work-Life Balance:

• Generous Accrued Paid Vacation: 3 weeks in your first year!

• Vacation Cash-Out Option

• 3 Paid Personal Days

• 11 Paid Holidays 

• Accrued Paid Sick Time

Why Join Stetson School? At Stetson School, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to transforming lives. You’ll gain valuable experience, build meaningful connections, and contribute to a supportive environment where both students and staff can grow and succeed.

If you’re ready to make a difference and take on a rewarding, hands-on role, we encourage you to apply.

 

You can also see an overview of the amazing work our organization does with this video: 

https://www.sevenhills.org/affiliates/stetson-school/

Responsibilities Student Care & Support

• Ensure all essential student needs are met each shift in accordance with program standards

• Model and reinforce positive behavioral, social, and daily living skills

• Support students’ emotional growth, self-regulation, and social development using trauma-informed practices

• Maintain professional boundaries while building supportive, respectful relationships

Daily Structure & Supervision

• Provide continuous supervision to ensure student safety and engagement

• Maintain structured daily routines and ensure participation in scheduled activities

• Conduct regular room checks and monitor student whereabouts

• Transport students to appointments and approved activities as needed

Behavior Management

• Respond to student behavior using approved behavior management techniques, including CPI strategies

• Utilize de-escalation methods and apply interventions when necessary

• Process incidents with students and support learning and growth following behavioral challenges

Recreation & Skill Development

• Plan and lead structured recreational and skill-building activities

• Facilitate group programming and support clinical and social development goals

• Serve as a positive role model in all interactions and activities

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete all required documentation accurately and on time, including shift notes, incident reports, and behavioral tracking

• Maintain records related to assigned students, including progress reports and program documentation

Health, Safety & Environment

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized living environment

• Support students in personal hygiene, housekeeping, and daily living tasks

• Administer medication as trained and directed

• Conduct safety checks, drills, and inspections as required

Shift Leadership

• Lead shift operations, ensuring routines and responsibilities are completed

• Mentor and support new staff members

• Serve as team-in-charge when assigned, including communication with supervisors and on-call staff

• Oversee program resources, including student funds and activity budgets

Skills & Attributes

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations

• Commitment to teamwork, accountability, and professionalism

• Understanding of trauma-informed care and youth development principles

• Ability to balance structure, empathy, and consistency in a therapeutic setting

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in a human services-related field preferred

• 0–3 years of experience working with youth or in human services

• Valid driver’s license required