Community Support Specialist, Youth

About the Role

• Provide personalized, in-home and community-based support to young people and their caregivers.
• Help build resilience, navigate challenges, and create lasting change.
• Serve as a trusted advocate, resource, and ally in the wellness journey.
• This role is for individuals passionate about children’s mental health, who enjoy hands-on work in the community and thrive on building relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver strengths-based, holistic services to youth and families based on individualized Wellness Plans.
• Support family engagement and participation in the treatment process.
• Provide coaching, skill-building, and access to community resources.
• Collaborate with school staff, healthcare providers, and other child-serving systems.
• Offer crisis support when needed and assist in developing safety plans.
• Communicate regularly with the client’s integrated care team.
• Document services accurately and timely in accordance with agency guidelines.
• Travel within the community to meet with clients and families in their homes.
• Flex schedule based on client needs — some evenings and weekends required.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High School/GED required.
• Associate's* or Bachelor’s degree in a human service-related field preferred.
• Valid driver's license and agency established minimum automobile coverage required.

Qualifications

Must qualify for position based on overall CSS requirements in at least one of the options listed:

• Qualified addiction professional.
• Bachelor’s degree in a human services field from an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Any four-year degree or combination of higher education and qualifying experience.
• Four years of qualifying experience.
• Associate of Applied Science in Behavioral Health Support degree as designated by the department.

Qualifying experience must include delivery of service to individuals with mental illness, substance use disorders, or developmental disabilities.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Both experienced and new to the human services field are welcome.
• Bring compassion, patience, and energy to every interaction.
• Comfortable working in the field and meeting families in their homes or community settings.
• Thrive in a role that balances teamwork with independence.
• Communicate clearly and build trust with clients, families, and professional partners.
• Adaptable, solution-focused, and motivated by making a difference.