Position: Youth Guidance Specialist
Organization: Fort Reno Adolescent Center, Gary E. Miller Canadian County Children’s Justice Center
Location: El Reno, OK, 73036, United States
Posted On: [To be added]
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Type: Annual
Pay Rate: $36,720.00 per year
Contact Name: Amy Van Ness
Contact Email: avanness@ccjcok.org
Position Description:
The Youth Guidance Specialist will work at the Fort Reno Adolescent Center, a 12-bed residential substance abuse treatment program for adolescents aged 13 to 17, located at the Gary E. Miller Canadian County Children’s Justice Center. This role is essential in providing structure, safety, and direct supervision in a therapeutic community-style living environment.
The program supports youth in Canadian County who qualify for intensive residential care under ASAM Level 3.5 criteria. The center emphasizes family engagement, peer collaboration, healthy recreational activities, and trauma-informed care.
WhatsApp Group
Telegram GroupKey Responsibilities:
- Supervise residents continuously with full awareness of their location and activity
- Oversee and support residents in personal hygiene, schedules, and chores
- Monitor resident behavior and report daily activities, incidents, and concerns
- Facilitate recreational and therapeutic activities and outings
- Enforce group home rules and maintain a structured, respectful environment
- Assist with chart audits, shift change communication, and documentation accuracy
- Attend staff training, meetings, and remain informed on policies and safety procedures
- Supervise during meal times, family visits, and transport as needed
- Ensure facility cleanliness and report maintenance or safety issues
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold all standards related to resident privacy and program ethics
Minimum Qualifications:
- Must be at least 21 years old
- High school diploma or GED and at least 2 years’ experience in a residential youth setting, or a bachelor’s degree
- Must hold a valid driver’s license and carry auto insurance
- Must pass background check, fingerprinting, drug and alcohol screening
Preferred Skills and Knowledge:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of adolescent development and trauma-informed care
- Ability to remain calm and resolve crises or behavioral incidents effectively
- Flexibility to work various shifts, weekends, holidays, and on short notice
Supervisory Relationships:
- Reports directly to the Assistant Shift Supervisor and Shift Supervisor
Special Conditions:
- Travel may be required for resident transportation
- This is a safety-sensitive position under the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act (63 O.S. § 427.1 et seq.), subject to drug screening compliance regardless of medical marijuana license status
Work Schedule:
- 40 hours per week with a flexible schedule
- Must be available to work across all shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
Compensation:
- $36,720.00 per year
- Benefits include:
- 12 paid holidays
- Paid sick, annual, and bereavement leave
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance with generous allowance
- 457(b) and 401(a) retirement plans with up to $1,800/year match
- Government pension (vested after 8 years)
- Optional life, disability, and supplemental insurance
About the Organization:
The Fort Reno Adolescent Center is part of the Gary E. Miller Canadian County Children’s Justice Center and provides residential treatment for youth battling substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. The center offers a safe, engaging, and recovery-focused environment with emphasis on individual growth, peer support, and community reintegration.
Canadian County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds committed to supporting youth in need.