Youth Development Specialist (YDS) – Eastern Shore, MD

Job Title: Youth Development Specialist (YDS)

Salary/Hourly Rate: $25 per hour

Position Status: Contractual

Location: Maryland Eastern Shore

Position Overview We are looking to hire at a minimum 2-3 YDS in the Eastern Shore Area.

The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) provides direct, individualized 1:1 Support Services to youth and young adults enrolled in the 1:1 Support Service program previously knowna s the Alternative Placement for Youth (APY) Program. Youth Development Specialists work directly with participants to promote personal growth, strengthen life and social skills, support positive behavioral outcomes, and build the skills necessary for greater independence and a successful transition into adulthood.

This is a flexible, contract-based position ideal for experienced professionals seeking part-time or supplemental work while making a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and young adults. Participants have varying levels of independence and support needs and may present with behavioral challenges, developmental or intellectual disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder, and personal care needs, including occasional incontinence. Assignments are made based on participant needs and the Youth Development Specialist’s experience and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities (Including But Not Limited To)

• Provide individualized 1:1 support services based on each participant’s identified needs, goals, and service plan.
• Work directly with participants to implement strategies that promote personal development, independence, positive behavior, and improved daily functioning.
• Support participants in developing practical life skills necessary for a successful transition into adulthood, including communication, decision-making, self-advocacy, social skills, and community navigation.
• Plan and facilitate structured, hands-on mentoring and skill-building activities tailored to participant goals and interests.
• Provide community-based support and exposure to help participants practice skills in real-world settings.
• Provide appropriate guidance and support to participants with varying behavioral, developmental, and personal care needs.
• Provide safe and reliable transportation for participants as required by the assigned service plan.
• Maintain timely, accurate, and consistent documentation of participant interactions and services in the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system.
• Attend required monthly supervision meetings, organizational trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Communicate and collaborate with supervisors, families, service providers, and community partners as appropriate to support effective service delivery.
• Maintain professional boundaries, confidentiality, and participant safety at all times.
• Adhere to all organizational policies, procedures, documentation standards, and program requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Must be 21 years of age or older.

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience working with youth and/or adults in one or more of the following areas:

• Behavioral health

• Child welfare

• Juvenile justice or criminal justice

• Youth development or community-based services

• Developmental or intellectual disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder

• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a clean driving record.

• Ability and willingness to transport participants when required.

• Ability to successfully complete all required background checks and screenings. Instructions and approved locations will be provided based on region.

• Ability to complete required documentation accurately and within established deadlines.

Skills And Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to make sound and timely decisions while working independently in community-based settings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to establish appropriate, professional relationships with youth, young adults, families, and community partners.
• Ability to adapt approaches based on individual participant needs, behaviors, abilities, and developmental levels.
• Creative and resourceful approach to youth development and engagement.
• Patience, empathy, consistency, and professionalism.
• Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries while building trusting and supportive relationships.
• Strong organization, time-management, and documentation skills.
• Dependability and ability to follow through consistently with participant schedules and commitments.

Working Schedule Hours vary based on participant needs, Youth Development Specialist availability, and program requirements.

This position offers a flexible schedule, with opportunities to select available assignments and build a weekly schedule based on availability and program needs. Evening and weekend availability may be needed for some participant assignments.

Additional Information

• Multiple contractual positions are available throughout Maryland.
• Participant ages, abilities, goals, and levels of support will vary by assignment.
• Youth Development Specialists may be matched with participants based on experience, location, availability, and participant needs.
• This is a contractual position and may be well suited for professionals seeking part-time or supplemental work in youth development, behavioral health, human services, or related fields.
• Because services are provided directly to participants in community settings, reliability, professionalism, documentation, and consistent attendance are essential.

Job Type

• Contractual

Work Location:

• In person

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required as other functions may be assigned.

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This is a Non–Exempt Position Under The Fair Labor Standards Act.

Lead4Life, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Lead4Life is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a workplace that values professionalism, respect, fairness, and inclusion. Employment decisions are made in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and based on organizational needs, qualifications, performance, and other legitimate employment considerations.

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Choose one...1:1 Supportive Services Mentor – Central Maryland1:1 Supportive Services Mentor – Western/Southern/Upper Shore MDChild Placement WorkerHuman Resources ManagerMentoring InitiativePRP Rehabilitation Counselor – State-wide/Eastern ShorePRN Youth Worker – SalisburyRCI Re-entry Specialist – Lower Eastern ShoreRehabilitation Counselor – Lower Eastern Shore, MDYouth Development Specialist – Eastern Shore

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