Job Description

Childcare Support Staff for Children in Foster Care FT/PT/Summer

Locations: Private Foster Homes in various towns including Merrimac, MA Dracut, MA, Lawrence, MA, Amesbury, MA

Primary Functions
This position will involve providing supervision and direct care to children and adolescents residing in Foster Homes. Will assist in implementing treatment plan goals, therapeutic support services, skill development, and safety plans. Will assist with medical appointments, general care, transportation, etc. as needed.
Supervision
Works as part of a team under the supervision of the Director of Youth Services
Education
Minimum High School Diploma or an equivalent document. Bachelors Degree in Human Services or related field preferred. Experience in Childcare, Special Needs, or Human Services required.
Skills/Qualities
Must hold a valid driver's license.
Must share the belief that youth with impairments offer substantial rewards to those who care for them
Work to reflect the mission and principles of Shared Living Collaborative and DCF.
Demonstrate solid interpersonal skills and be reliable, consistent and flexible.
Knowledgeable and skilled in utilizing various treatment approaches/modalities in meeting the clinical/therapeutic and safety needs of individuals.
Exhibit good judgment and decision making skills even in challenging situations and demonstrates creative problem-solving skills.
Work well independently and as part of a team.
Demonstrate initiative, commitment, and positive energy.
Communicate efficiently and effectively with all team members.
Demonstrate personal awareness/self-reflection related to work issues and performance and be committed to personal and professional growth.
Knowledge
Experience and knowledge related to individuals with cognitive, physical impairments, medical conditions, mental health delays, dynamics related to trauma, abuse, and subsequent treatment approaches is preferred.
Applicants must also demonstrate excellent knowledge related to all essential safeguards and procedures such as fire safety, environmental, and street safety
Knowledge of DCF/EEC is helpful
Job Duties
Follow and implement all safety guidelines, procedures and assessments and assist in ensuring that all health, personal, and safety needs are met at all times.
Assist individuals in the development and implementation of life skills and related tasks (such as cooking, feeding, shopping, transportation, housekeeping, ADLs, personal and health care, etc.), and in becoming as self-sufficient as possible without compromising safety.
May perform non-skilled nursing tasks such as tube feedings, after adequate training.
Assist individuals and Foster Parents with implementation of treatment goals.
Assist with the development and access to meaningful therapeutic and recreational activities.
Assist individuals, as needed, in attending and participating in all medical and therapeutic appointments.
Provide transportation to individuals as needed.
Promote a healthy lifestyle.
Assist in the development of community resources and connections.
Provide skilled and specific therapeutic supports to assist individuals in overcoming challenges.
Follow and implement behavioral plans and guidelines developed for individuals when appropriate.
Promote and teach human rights and self-advocacy skills.
Assist individuals in the development of personal and social skills and accessing social opportunities.
Support individuals in foster homes as well as in the community.
Function as an integral part of the case management team.
Provide crisis intervention when necessary and appropriate.
Must be available to work afternoons/evenings and weekends

Positions available in Dracut, MA, Lawrence, MA, Merrimac, MA, and Amesbury, MA. Other locations may be available.

Fingerprint-based Criminal Background Check required