Job Description

Who We AreLawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and communities impacted by trauma.Lawrence Hall fosters a culture built upon the principles of the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) model and the core values of Respect, Empowerment, Safety, and Teamwork. Together, these principles are embedded throughout our trauma-informed philosophy and guide how we serve youth and families, support one another as colleagues, and partner with our community.Our Therapeutic Day School serves CPS-referred youth ages 5-22 with emotional, intellectual, and learning challenges. Through personalized, IEP-driven instruction and therapeutic supports, we help students build academic, social-emotional, and life skills that prepare them for long-term educational and personal success.About the RoleAs a Youth and Milieu Stabilization Specialist, you will help create a safe, healing, and restorative environment for youth in both our Therapeutic Day School (TDS) and Child & Family Treatment Center (CFTC). This role supports classroom and residential teams by responding to crisis situations, coaching staff in trauma-informed interventions, and helping youth safely return to baseline following emotional or behavioral escalations.This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is calm under pressure, skilled at relationship-building, and passionate about helping youth develop resilience through restorative and trauma-informed practices.What You'll DoRespond to youth crises and provide immediate stabilization support to help youth safely return to baseline functioning.Partner with school and residential teams to create a therapeutic, healing-centered environment that promotes safety, growth, and engagement.Coach and model trauma-informed de-escalation techniques, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) practices, and restorative approaches for staff.Support implementation of student IEPs, treatment plans, and interdisciplinary care strategies while participating in treatment team meetings.Complete documentation, review incident reports, facilitate debriefings, and support quality improvement initiatives.Assist with program operations, including transportation, ratio coverage, and community-based activities as needed.Who We're Looking ForRequiredBachelor's degree preferred and a minimum of two years of experience working with youth in a therapeutic day school, residential treatment, or similar setting; OR High School Diploma/GED and at least three years of relevant experience.Current Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Paraprofessional License.Strong mediation, conflict resolution, and restorative justice skills.Ability to work effectively with youth, families, and colleagues in a culturally diverse environment.Valid Illinois driver's license, access to a vehicle, and proof of automobile insurance.Ability to utilize verbal interventions and, when necessary, approved physical restraint techniques with youth.No history of child abuse or neglect.Ability to successfully complete required background checks and screenings.PreferredKnowledge of childhood trauma and trauma-informed care practices.Experience working with youth and families impacted by traumatic stress.Understanding of youth development and strengths-based service approaches.Experience in therapeutic education, residential treatment, or behavioral health settings.Position Requirements & Work EnvironmentWork Location: Lawrence Hall Therapeutic Day School and Child & Family Treatment Center, 4833 N. Francisco Ave., Chicago, IL.Schedule: Full-time onsite position, Monday through Friday, with flexibility for meetings, professional development activities, and program needs.Travel/Driving: Occasional local travel may be required for program-related activities and youth transportation.Physical Requirements: Ability to perform verbal and physical crisis intervention techniques, kneel and return to standing without assistance, and actively support youth during crisis situations.Work Environment: Combination of therapeutic school and residential treatment settings serving youth with emotional, behavioral, developmental, and trauma-related needs.Other Position Requirements: Participation in required trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and agency training programs.Compensation and BenefitsWe care about the well-being of our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that includes:Salary: $41,800-$45,000 annually. Compensation is based on a set salary rate and may vary based on education and experience.Average of 17-25 days PTO + 9 holidays.Medical insurance (HMO and PPO options).Dental insurance (HMO and PPO options).Vision insurance.401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto-vesting.Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for Medical and Dependent Care.Pre-tax commuter benefits for parking and transit.100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance.Voluntary Life Insurance for employees, spouses, and children.Accident and Critical Illness Insurance.Short-Term and Long-Term Disability.100% employer-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources.Wellness Reimbursement Program.Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500.Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees.Public Service Loan Forgiveness.How to ApplySubmit your resume here.We look forward to learning more about you!Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.This position meets the FLSA requirements for Exempt.Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out-of-state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre-boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre-boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs