NYS Office of Children and Family Services

Youth Support Assistant (Permanent)

CLAVERACK, NYPosted 21 days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from NYS Office of Children and Family Services

  • Job overview

    The Youth Support Assistant role involves maintaining security and safety in secure and residential youth programs, supporting youth aged 6-21, and contributing to the facility's secure environment.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The role includes maintaining facility security, controlling keys, conducting perimeter inspections, checking vehicles and visitors for contraband, monitoring cameras and movement, attending biannual restraint training, and working shifts including weekends and mandatory overtime.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates need one year of full-time youth care experience or a high school diploma, with direct care experience preferred in juvenile justice or related youth programs, plus completion of a six-week Basic Academy Training and a valid New York State driver's license.

  • Work environment and culture

    The position requires dedication to diversity, inclusion, and working in an environment that affirms diverse backgrounds and experiences, with a commitment to racial justice and equal opportunity.

  • Company information

    The New York State Office of Children and Family Services operates secure, limited secure, and residential programs for youth across the state, focusing on care and rehabilitation.

  • Job location and travel

    Positions are located throughout New York State in secure, limited secure, and residential youth programs, requiring shift work including weekends, holidays, and overtime.

  • Application process

    Applicants must specify how they meet minimum qualifications with detailed experience or education in their cover letter or resume, and will undergo criminal background checks, fingerprinting, and screening against child abuse and staff exclusion lists.

  • Unique job features

    The job includes mandatory biannual restraint training and requires working in a secure facility environment with strict security protocols.

Company overview

The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is a government agency responsible for promoting the well-being and safety of children, families, and vulnerable adults in New York State. They provide a range of services including child welfare, juvenile justice, and child care regulation, as well as support for families in need. The agency makes money through state funding and federal grants, which are allocated to implement and manage these programs. Established in 1998, OCFS plays a crucial role in shaping policies and services that aim to protect and support the state's most vulnerable populations. Understanding their mission and the scope of their services is essential for any candidate interested in contributing to this impactful organization.

How to land this job

  • Tailor your resume to emphasize experience in youth care, particularly with juvenile justice or residential programs, and highlight your ability to maintain security and perform surveillance duties as outlined in the job description.

  • Focus on showcasing your familiarity with facility security protocols, key control, perimeter inspections, and monitoring movement, as these are critical components of the Youth Support Assistant role.

  • Apply through multiple platforms including the NYS Office of Children and Family Services official website and LinkedIn to maximize your application reach and visibility.

  • Connect with current Youth Support Assistants or staff in the Division of Juvenile Justice and Opportunities for Youth at OCFS on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like asking about their experience with the Basic Academy Training or how they manage shift work and mandatory overtime.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords such as 'facility security,' 'youth care,' 'juvenile justice system,' 'restraint techniques training,' and 'surveillance,' ensuring your resume passes initial automated screenings.

  • Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate applying through multiple channels, tailor your resume with relevant keywords, and identify LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and follow-ups.

Jennie Johnson works for you!

Here’s what we do to make sure you’re successful:

  • Targeted Resume Revamp:

    We expertly craft your resume to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and showcase your qualifications, making you stand out as a top-tier candidate.

  • Job Description Dissection:

    Unpack the job posting with expert analysis, ensuring your application hits every key requirement.

  • Bespoke Cover Letter:

    Capture the attention of hiring managers with a personalized cover letter that highlights how your skills align perfectly with the job's needs.

  • Interview Mastery:

    Prepare for interviews like a pro with likely questions, strategic answers, and insightful questions for you to ask, setting you apart as an informed candidate.

  • Direct Application Insights:

    Receive tailored advice on the best places to apply, ensuring your applications are seen by the right employers.

  • Skills and Gaps Assessment:

    Identify and close critical skills gaps to position yourself as the best-fit candidate for your ideal job.

  • Personalized Email Pitch:

    Make a memorable first impression with an email template crafted to engage potential employers and initiate meaningful conversations.

  • In-depth Research Guide:

    Leverage comprehensive research tools to gather effective insights on companies, industry trends, and role-specific challenges.

  • Detailed Company Analysis:

    Gain in-depth understanding of your prospective employer, giving you the edge in applications and interviews.

  • Strategic Candidate Overview:

    Understand your unique value and why companies would want to interview you, highlighting your background and positioning.