Back Up Youth Specialist

Back Up Youth Specialist

Reports to: Shift Supervisor

Location: Youth Shelter, Cedar Rapids, IA

Hours: Varies – Typically evenings and weekends

 About Foundation 2 Crisis Services

Foundation 2 Crisis Services is a mission-driven, non-profit organization that provides critical crisis intervention and prevention services across Iowa. We operate a 24/7 crisis center, including phone, text, and chat services. We also operate an emergency youth shelter, mental health support groups, community-based crisis programs, training, and more. We have been saving lives for over 50 years. Join our team today!

 Overview of the role

Duties include ensuring shift tasks are completed, specifically providing routine, structure, and life skills training for all clients. Ensure that paperwork is complete including the following:  intakes/discharges, daily observations, individual sessions as well as various administrative duties. Ensure clients receive care that is client centered and trauma informed. Ensure implementation/development of shelter program goals includes role modeling and appropriate boundaries; ability to manage a group and enforce behavior management system; relate well with clients; attendance and punctuality; appropriateness at meetings and around team members; using good judgment and problem-solving skills, etc. Ensure orderliness/cleanliness of the shelter.

Hours vary.  Typical shifts last between 4-6 hours. Shifts are available through a full 24/7 period.  Minimum 1 shift per month. Required monthly staff meetings on the last Wednesday of each month from 5:30-7:00p

Benefits

• Salary starting at $17/hour.
• Generous paid time off, including floating mental wellness days.
• Retirement plans with Foundation 2 Crisis Services’ matching contributions.
• Go to sleep at night knowing that work you did matters. Foundation 2 Crisis Services staff save lives every day.

Who you are

• Organized. You possess strong organizational skills and can oversee daily responsibilities.
• Client-centered. You are dedicated and passionate about working with individuals in crisis. You know it is an honor to be trusted to support people at their most vulnerable.
• Roll model and leader. You are a mentor and compassionate leader who is excited about supporting staff and colleagues.
• Compassionate. Working with at-risk youth requires compassion and a willingness to understand and exercise trauma-informed care practices.

What you’ll do

• Duties include ensuring shift tasks are completed, specifically providing routine, structure, and life skills training for all clients.
• Ensure that paperwork is complete including the following:  intakes/discharges, daily observations, individual sessions as well as various administrative duties.
• Ensure clients receive care that is client centered and trauma informed.
• Ensure implementation/development of shelter program goals includes role modeling and appropriate boundaries; ability to manage a group and enforce behavior management system; relate well with clients; attendance and punctuality; appropriateness at meetings and around team members; using good judgment and problem-solving skills, etc.

• Ensure orderliness/cleanliness of the shelter.

What you need

• High school diploma.
• Comfort using basic computer software.
• Basic typing and data entry skills.
• Valid driver’s license and be insurable by the agency auto insurance policy.
• Pass all background checks completed by Foundation 2 Crisis Services.
• Live within 50 miles of Cedar Rapids, IA.
• Be at least 21 years of age.
• Associate degree preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience working with and compassion for at-risk youth preferred.

Your Application

We’re excited to hear from you! To join the Foundation 2 Crisis Services team, please email your resume and cover letter to jobs@foundation2.org.  No inquiries by phone. All questions will be answered during an initial virtual interview. Resumes, applications, and cover letter accepted until position filled.

Not sure you meet every requirement? We understand that strong candidates may not always meet every listed qualification. At Foundation 2 Crisis Services, we value potential, dedication, and a willingness to learn. If this role interests you, we encourage you to apply—even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly. You may be the right fit for this or future opportunities.

Foundation 2 Crisis Services is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor.