Dedicated Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

1 : 1 Support Specialist – Maryland (Multiple Regions)

Position Summary

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) is seeking reliable, compassionate individuals to provide 1 : 1 Support Services for children and youth in out-of-home care throughout Maryland. This role provides supplemental supervision, safety support, de-escalation assistance, and structured engagement to help maintain placement stability and support the child's well-being.

Assignments vary from one-day needs to short-term placements lasting up to 30 days, with possible extensions based on the Department's direction.

Responsibilities

Provide direct 1 : 1 supervision and support in foster homes, group settings, or community environments

Follow behavior plans, service goals, and all trauma-informed care guidelines

Support crisis de-escalation and encourage safe, age-appropriate behavior

Engage youth in meaningful activities when needed

Communicate with caregivers, caseworkers, and clinical supervisors

Complete all required documentation, including daily contact notes and weekly summaries

Respond to referral requests promptly (services may be requested 24 / 7)

Training and Support Provided

All staff must complete required training prior to providing services, including :

Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI)

Therapeutic Crisis Intervention or Safe Crisis Management

Medication management

First Aid and CPR

Ongoing in-service training

Weekly clinical supervision by an LCSW-C

Requirements

Must be 21 years of age or older

Valid driver's license

Ability to pass state and federal background checks and fingerprinting

Strong communication and documentation skills

Ability to respond to changing needs and work independently

Commitment to trauma-informed practices

Service Areas

We are hiring in multiple Maryland regions, including Southern, Central, Western, and Eastern Shore. Some assignments may occur in neighboring jurisdictions depending on youth needs.

ARE YOU READY TO JOIN OUR TEAM?

If you feel you would be a good fit for this position, please complete our brief, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to reviewing your information.

ABOUT PEDIATRIC DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) partners with public school districts, charter schools, and community programs nationwide to provide highly qualified pediatric professionals, including speech, occupational, and physical therapists. We offer meaningful support, individualized mentorship, competitive compensation, and strong benefits because our team members are essential to our mission of improving the lives of children.

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