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Direct Care Youth Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HP2, LLC

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Direct Care / Youth Mentor

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$18/hr

Position Summary The Youth Mentor provides direct care, supervision, and support to youth in a ... Experience working with youth, behavioral health, or residential care preferred * Knowledge of ...

Project Hospitality

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$18.50/hr

The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services, transitional ...

Project Hospitality, Inc.

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$33K/yr

The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services, transitional ...

Project Hospitality, Inc.

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$18.50/hr

The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services, transitional ...

Project Hospitality

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$18.50/hr

SUMMARY: The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services ...

Project Hospitality

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services, transitional ...

Project Hospitality

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services, transitional ...

Project Hospitality

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services, transitional ...

Project Hospitality, Inc.

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$33K/yr

The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services, transitional ...

Commonpoint Queens

$17/hr

The Youth Worker plays a key role in supporting the operation and maintenance of the Youth ... Work with the Director to prioritize programming needs. Set up and break down equipment, materials ...

Project Hospitality

Youth Worker

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

SUMMARY: The Youth Worker will be responsible for ensuring client safety, providing direct care services, and maintaining building safety during all shift hours at our 24-hour youth services ...

Commonpoint Queens

$17/hr

Within our framework of holistic, strength-focused, and family-supported practice, an individual hired as the Youth Worker at the Youth Opportunity Hub will report directly to the Director, Youth ...

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Direct Care Youth Worker information

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How much do direct care youth worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care youth worker in the United States is $15.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct care youth worker?

Direct Care Youth Workers are professionals who support and supervise young people in residential facilities, group homes, or youth programs. They are responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of youth, helping with daily activities, and implementing behavior management strategies. These workers often provide emotional support, teach life skills, and act as positive role models. Their role is essential in helping youth develop the skills they need to succeed and transition to more independent living.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a direct care youth worker?

To thrive as a Direct Care Youth Worker, you typically need a background in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with experience working with at-risk youth. Familiarity with behavior management systems, incident reporting software, and sometimes first aid or CPR certification is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help build trust and provide effective support. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, development, and well-being of youth in challenging environments.

What challenges do direct care youth workers face and how can they be managed?

Direct Care Youth Workers often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral issues, building trust with youth from diverse backgrounds, and maintaining emotional resilience. Effective strategies include consistent communication, establishing clear boundaries, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams such as counselors and case managers. Ongoing training and peer support are also vital, as they provide tools and perspectives to address difficult situations while maintaining a positive and supportive environment for the youth.

What is the difference between Direct Care Youth Worker vs Child Care Worker?

AspectDirect Care Youth WorkerChild Care Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require CPR/First Aid certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid often preferred
Work EnvironmentResidential facilities, group homes, community programsDaycare centers, preschools, childcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, residential care providersPrivate daycares, preschools, childcare centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve caring for children, Direct Care Youth Workers typically work in residential or community settings supporting youth with special needs or behavioral challenges. Child Care Workers primarily work in daycare or preschool environments, focusing on early childhood development. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in child welfare and development sectors.

How do I become a direct care youth worker?

To become a direct care youth worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience working with youth or in social services. Many employers also require background checks and may prefer candidates with certifications such as CPR or first aid. On-the-job training is common, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for success in this role.
More about Direct Care Youth Worker jobs

What cities are hiring for Direct Care Youth Worker jobs?

Cities with the most Direct Care Youth Worker job openings:

What job categories do people searching Direct Care Youth Worker jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Care Youth Worker jobs are:

Direct Care Youth Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Care Youth Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,351 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Direct Care / Youth Care Worker Professional

Children Having Opportunities in a Caring Environment Inc

Valrico, FL • On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Direct Care / Youth Care WorkerResidential At-Risk Group Home – Adolescent Males | Florida

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most
Are you passionate about helping youth overcome adversity and build a better future?
We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated individuals to join our team as Direct Care / Youth Care Workers in a licensed residential group home serving at-risk adolescent males. In this role, you will directly impact the lives of youth who have experienced trauma, instability, and loss—helping them build the skills needed for long-term success.
This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to be a mentor, role model, and agent of change.
Position Overview:
The Direct Care / Youth Care Worker provides continuous supervision, direct care, and therapeutic support in a structured residential setting. Staff serve as caregivers and surrogate parental figures, supporting youth in developing emotional regulation, life skills, and positive behaviors.
Using a trauma-informed care approach, you will help create a safe, stable, and nurturing environment where youth can heal, grow, and prepare for reunification or permanent placement.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Care & Supervision
  • Provide continuous supervision to ensure the safety, welfare, and security of all residents
  • Serve as a caregiver, mentor, and positive role model
  • Act as a surrogate parent, modeling appropriate behavior and decision-making
  • Build supportive relationships while maintaining professional boundaries
Daily Living Support & Life Skills
  • Guide youth through daily routines, including hygiene, chores, and responsibilities
  • Teach life skills such as cooking, cleaning, time management, and problem-solving
  • Prepare meals and snacks while engaging youth in skill-building activities
  • Assist with homework, academic enrichment, and e-learning
Therapeutic Environment & Engagement
  • Maintain a safe, clean, structured, and nurturing home environment
  • Plan and supervise therapeutic, recreational, and community-based activities
  • Support trauma-informed interventions and behavior management strategies
Transportation & Community Activities
  • Transport youth to school bus stops, appointments, and activities using agency vehicles
  • Provide supervision during community outings and medical visits
Behavioral Support & Crisis Intervention
  • Identify and report emotional, behavioral, or developmental concerns
  • Implement behavior modification techniques and individualized interventions
  • Utilize crisis de-escalation strategies to manage challenging situations safely
Medication Administration & Documentation
  • Administer and document medications per agency policy
  • Monitor for side effects and report concerns
  • Complete accurate and timely documentation, including daily logs and incident reports
  • Maintain compliance with all recordkeeping standards
Team Collaboration
  • Participate in individualized care planning and implementation
  • Provide feedback on youth progress, strengths, and needs
  • Attend team meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities
  • Support a culture of structure, consistency, and communication
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a human services-related field preferred. In lieu of a degree, a High School Diploma or GED with relevant experience working with youth will be accepted.
  • 2+ years of experience in a residential or group home setting
Licensing & Requirements
  • Valid Florida Driver’s License with clean driving record
  • Must be insurable under agency commercial auto policy
  • Ability to operate a 7- or 12-passenger vehicle
  • Reliable transportation with proof of insurance
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain)
  • Ability to pass comprehensive background screenings, including:
    • DCF Level II / 7-point background check
    • Child Abuse Registry
    • Sexual Offender Registry
    • FBI and local law enforcement checks
Additional Requirements
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills
  • Ability to plan and coordinate recreational, social, and educational activities
  • Dependability, punctuality, and consistency are essential
  • Ability to understand and implement individualized care plans for each resident
Schedule Options
  • Full-Time: Evening Shift (3:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
  • Part-Time: Evenings & Weekends
  • Overnight / 3rd Shift: 11:00 PM – 9:00 AM
Compensation & Benefits
  • Pay: $17.50 – $21.25 per hour (DOE)
  • Full-time, non-exempt position
Benefits Include:
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & Vacation
  • Holiday Pay
  • Simple IRA (after 90 days)
  • Supplemental Insurance (Aflac)
  • Opportunities for advancement and professional growth
  • 401 K participation
Why Join Our Team
  • Meaningful, mission-driven work that changes lives
  • Supportive and team-oriented work environment
  • Hands-on experience in child welfare and behavioral health
  • Opportunities to grow within the organization
The Impact You’ll Make
Your consistency, structure, and care can help youth:
  • Build trust and emotional stability
  • Develop life skills and coping strategies
  • Improve behavior and decision-making
  • Successfully transition to family-based or permanent placements
Apply Today
If you are committed to making a difference and ready for a rewarding and challenging role, we encourage you to apply and become part of a team dedicated to changing lives.