Milton Hershey School, a cost-free private residential school serving students from pre-K through 12th grade, is seeking a compassionate, responsible Residential Youth Caregiver to join its Community & Social Services department. In this role, you will live and work within a residential student home environment, providing daily care, guidance, and structure to a diverse group of school-age children and adolescents. You will help create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ academic progress, social-emotional growth, and character development.
As a Residential Youth Caregiver, you will model positive behavior and healthy life skills, support students with homework and school routines, and coordinate daily schedules, including meals, chores, activities, and bedtimes. You will actively build trusting relationships, offer mentorship, and use positive behavior management techniques to help students develop responsibility, resilience, and respect for themselves and others. Collaboration is central to this position—you will work closely with teachers, counselors, and administrators to ensure that each student’s academic, social, and emotional needs are identified and supported.
Key responsibilities include supervising students in the home and during on- and off-campus activities; maintaining a structured, predictable environment; reinforcing school policies and expectations; and documenting relevant student observations or incidents. You will also participate in family-style mealtimes, support life-skills learning such as personal hygiene, organization, and time management, and encourage involvement in extracurricular, community service, and enrichment opportunities. In crisis or conflict situations, you will be expected to respond calmly, use de-escalation strategies, and follow school protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
This role requires strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with children and teens from varied backgrounds, many of whom have experienced significant life challenges. Cultural sensitivity and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential, aligning with Milton Hershey School’s mission to provide a holistic education and supportive community. Residential Youth Caregivers must be flexible and able to manage irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, consistent with a residential school schedule.
Candidates should bring prior experience working with youth in residential care, education, counseling, social services, or related community programs. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, and additional education in human services, psychology, education, or a related field is highly valued. CPR and First Aid certification, or the willingness to obtain certification shortly after hire, is expected. Successful caregivers are organized, reliable, emotionally mature, and collaborative team members who are deeply motivated to make a lasting positive impact on students’ lives.
Milton Hershey School offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to build a meaningful career within a mission-driven, supportive culture. Residential Youth Caregivers play a critical role in fulfilling the school’s promise to provide a stable, caring, and growth-oriented home environment where each student can thrive academically, socially, and personally.