The Lead Childcare Specialist provides advanced direct care, guidance, and leadership within a residential setting for children and adolescents. This role works closely with the treatment team to ensure residents' safety, well-being, and progress while serving as a mentor and resource to direct care staff. The Lead Childcare Specialist helps maintain a structured, trauma-informed environment, supports daily operations, and may assume leadership responsibilities during shifts as needed. Responsibilities include supervising residents, meeting their physical, emotional, educational, and medical needs, supporting behavior management and crisis intervention efforts, coordinating daily activities, assisting with staff training, and promoting a positive living environment. The Lead Childcare Specialist must demonstrate strong judgment, leadership, and communication skills while modeling professionalism and best practices in residential care. This position includes onsite shared living arrangements and requires employees to remain on campus during scheduled shifts. Residential services operate 24/7, including holidays and inclement weather. The role requires frequent standing, walking, and the ability to safely perform approved crisis intervention techniques when necessary.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED equivalency is required. Bachelor’s degree in human service field from an accredited college or university preferred.
- Two years of direct care experience in residential programs/juvenile justice or behavioral treatment centers required.
- A minimum of one year of demonstrated leadership experience, such as Lead Direct Care Staff, Senior Direct Care Staff, Shift Lead, House Parent, Coach, Team Lead, or similar responsibility required.
- Understanding of children, youth and families in crisis.
- Effective listening and communication skills.
- Computer knowledge is preferred.
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license.
- Bending, lifting, grasping, fine hand/eye coordination, pushing, prolonged sitting/standing.
- Must be available for travel as needed.
- Proficiency in general office equipment operation is required.
- Must possess exceptional time management and detail-orientation skills.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Cal Farley's is an Equal Opportunity Employer.