Job DescriptionJob Description
Immediate need for a full-time, weekday, 1st Shift Direct Care Staff!
My Friend’s House is a residential home serving teenage boys in state custody who have experienced abuse, neglect, or difficult life circumstances. We are looking for compassionate, dependable individuals who want to help create a safe and supportive environment where young men can grow, heal, and build a better future.
If you are patient, steady under pressure, and passionate about helping teenagers succeed, this may be the right role for you.
Position Summary
The Direct Care Staff provides supervision, mentorship, and daily support for the eight teenage boys who live at My Friend’s House. This role helps maintain a safe, structured, and positive home environment while encouraging residents to develop responsibility, life skills, and healthy relationships.
Direct Care Staff serve as positive role models and are essential in helping residents grow emotionally, socially, and academically.
Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Youth Support and Supervision
Provide direct supervision and guidance for residents in daily activitiesServe as a positive role model while maintaining appropriate boundariesEncourage responsibility, accountability, and life skill developmentSupport residents in completing daily routines including school preparation, chores, and personal care
Household and Daily Living Support
Assist residents with household responsibilities including cleaning, laundry, and meal preparationHelp maintain a clean, organized, and safe living environmentParticipate in recreational activities and community outings with residents
Transportation and Activities
Transport residents to and from school, appointments, and activities using company vehiclesAssist with educational, recreational, and community activities
Documentation and Communication
Maintain accurate daily records and documentation of resident activities and observationsCommunicate important updates to staff and leadership as neededParticipate in staff meetings and treatment team discussions when requested
Safety and Crisis Support
Follow all agency policies and state regulations regarding youth supervision and safetyAssist with crisis intervention and de-escalation when neededConduct room checks, safety drills, and follow established safety procedures
General Duties
Assist with intake and discharge processes when neededHelp maintain vehicles, equipment, and suppliesAttend required training and professional development opportunities
Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent required (college coursework in social services, psychology, education, or related fields is a plus)At least one year of experience working with teenagers in a group setting preferredValid Tennessee driver’s license with a clean driving recordAbility to pass required background checks and drug screeningAbility to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will:
Have a heart for helping youth who have experienced traumaBe patient, calm, and able to manage challenging situations professionallyDemonstrate strong communication and teamwork skillsBe dependable, responsible, and emotionally matureBe comfortable setting boundaries while also offering encouragement and support
Work Environment
My Friend’s House is a residential facility operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Staff schedules may vary and flexibility is required to ensure the safety and supervision of residents.
Training
All staff receive training in areas such as:
Crisis intervention and de-escalationCPR and First AidMedication administration proceduresState regulatory requirements
Why Work at My Friend’s House
Working at My Friend’s House is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young men who need stability, encouragement, and support. Our team is committed to providing a safe and positive environment where both residents and staff can grow.
What This Job Is Like
Working with youth in residential care can be extremely rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Our residents have experienced difficult life circumstances and may struggle with trust, boundaries, or emotional regulation.
Successful staff members are patient, calm, consistent, and able to maintain structure while still showing care and encouragement.
If you are someone who enjoys mentoring teenagers and helping them develop life skills, this role can be incredibly meaningful.
Available Shift
We are currently hiring for a full-time staff for the following shift:
1st shift weekdays:
Monday through Friday
6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
These hours are typical, but require flexibility if relieving staff show up late or situations require coming in earlier then the shift starts or staying later then the shift ends.
Occasional Coverage
Opportunities may also exist to pick up additional shifts covering vacations, staff absences, school holidays, and summers.
Company DescriptionMy Friend’s House is a group-care facility offering temporary, short-term residential support for typically eight at-risk male youth ages 12-18. Our mission is to serve neglected, abused, or at-risk boys, ages 12-18, in State custody by offering a home-like environment with a balance of safety, structure, encouragement, care and expectations. Our mission continues in advocating for each resident that they be given the opportunity to recover from the adverse situation and become successful young adults.Company DescriptionMy Friend’s House is a group-care facility offering temporary, short-term residential support for typically eight at-risk male youth ages 12-18. Our mission is to serve neglected, abused, or at-risk boys, ages 12-18, in State custody by offering a home-like environment with a balance of safety, structure, encouragement, care and expectations. Our mission continues in advocating for each resident that they be given the opportunity to recover from the adverse situation and become successful young adults.
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