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Family & Consumer Science Specialist - CRS029 - Tues - Sat 10AM - 6PM

Job Details

Job Location

Setauket Community Residence - Setauket, NY

Education Level

2 Year Degree

Salary Range

$23.00 - $23.00 Hourly

Job Description

About WellLife Network: WellLife Network is a leading health and human services organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families across New York City and Long Island. Recognized as a 2023 top-rated nonprofit, WellLife Network empowers people to overcome life’s challenges and achieve greater independence, well-being, and inclusion. We offer a comprehensive suite of programs spanning mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, housing, and employment support, all grounded in a commitment to compassionate, high-quality care. Central to our mission is an unwavering dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) within our organization and in the communities we serve. As a trusted community partner, WellLife Network fosters a nurturing environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and realize their fullest potential.

Position Summary:The Family & Consumer Science (FACS) Specialist supports the development of independent living skills for youth residing in an OMH-licensed Youth Transitional Community Residence. This role is designed to prepare youth ages 16–21 for successful transition into adulthood by building competencies across essential areas of functioning. The FACS Specialist provides structured guidance and hands-on learning in nutrition, personal finance and budgeting, household skills and management, personal hygiene, and vocational preparation, while also supporting academic achievement, study skills, and educational planning.

In addition to daily living and academic support, the FACS Specialist plays a key role in professional development and career readiness. This includes job search assistance, resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, and individualized job coaching to help residents gain confidence and practical experience in the workforce. The FACS Specialist also teaches transferable skills such as workplace etiquette, time management, conflict resolution, and professional communication.

Beyond vocational and academic preparation, the role emphasizes adult-related functioning such as decision-making, problem-solving, community engagement, and navigating healthcare, housing, and other systems of care. By collaborating closely with youth, direct care staff, and clinical teams, the FACS Specialist ensures that skill-building opportunities are seamlessly integrated into each resident’s individualized service and discharge plans. The goal of this position is to foster autonomy, confidence, and long-term stability, equipping residents with the skills and resources needed to thrive as independent young adults.

Essential Accountabilities:

+ Facilitate structured, age-appropriate life skills training sessions (individually and in groups) in areas including:

+ Cooking and meal preparation

+ Grocery shopping and food budgeting

+ Personal hygiene and self-care

+ Household cleaning, laundry, and basic maintenance

+ Money management and banking

+ Time management and planning

+ Academic Readiness (e.g., study habits, organization skills, understanding educational options, and navigating school systems)

+ Job readiness (e.g., interview skills, resume writing, workplace expectations)

+ Collaborate with clinicians, residential staff, and care coordinators to ensure youth are progressing toward individualized life skills and discharge goals.

+ Maintain documentation of all skill-building activities, individual progress, and resident participation in accordance with OMH regulations and agency procedures.

+ Provide hands-on coaching during daily routines (e.g., supporting a resident to prepare a meal or complete a chore), encouraging mastery through practice.

+ Assist with setting personal goals related to independent living and help track progress toward those goals.

+ Model appropriate behavior and communication skills, reinforcing positive interactions and problem-solving.

+ Support youth in accessing and navigating community resources, such as public transportation, local stores, vocational services, and health appointments.

+ Participate in team meetings, service plan reviews, and training as required.

+ Ensure a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and youth-centered approach in all interactions.

+ Show sensitivity to cultural norms, recognize strengths in various cultural practices related to parenting and discipline, and maintain a non-judgmental approach towards diverse backgrounds.

+ Actively participate in individual supervision to address any concerns and to foster professional growth.

+ Perform additional tasks or responsibilities, as needed, to support program operations, youth development, or agency needs, even if not specifically listed in this job description. Flexibility and adaptability are expected as part of the role.

Job Qualifications

Qualifications:

+ An associate’s degree in human services or a related field is preferred; however, candidates with a high school diploma and relevant experience will be considered. Applicants should have at least one year of experience working with adolescents or young adults in a residential, educational, or community-based setting. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of independent living and life skills development, along with the ability to engage youth in a respectful, empowering, and age-appropriate manner. Effective written and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, are essential. A working knowledge of OMH regulations and trauma-informed practices is preferred. A valid driver’s license and the ability to transport youth in the community are required.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITY SPECIFICATIONS

PHYSICAL DEMANDS : The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT : Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is not exposed to weather conditions

BENEFITS AND PERKS: At WellLife Network, we prioritize our employees' growth and well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) matching, and flexible spending accounts. Enjoy perks like Summer Fridays, gym passes, and life insurance options. Our commitment to career advancement includes tuition assistance, mentorship, leadership training, and more. As a qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, WellLife Network supports your career and financial goals while helping you make a meaningful community impact. Join us to experience a workplace that invests in your success and well-being!