Respite Worker (CSOC)
Children's System of Care (CSOC) Respite Program
Position Title: Respite Worker
Department: Children's Services
Reports To: Program Supervisor
Employment Type: Full-Time | Part-Time | Per Diem
Location: New Jersey (Atlantic City, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer, Hudson, Ocean, Monmouth, Sussex, Warren, etc.)
Email Resume to: [email protected]
Position Summary
Quality First Support Group (QFSG) is seeking compassionate, dependable, and family-centered Respite Workers to provide temporary in-home and community-based respite services for children and adolescents enrolled in New Jersey's Children's System of Care (CSOC).
The Respite Worker provides short-term supervision and support that allows caregivers time to rest, attend appointments, work, or manage other responsibilities while ensuring the child's health, safety, and well-being. Services are individualized to meet each child's strengths, interests, and support needs while promoting positive experiences, skill development, and community inclusion.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide safe, supportive supervision for children and adolescents receiving CSOC respite services.
- Implement services in accordance with the Individualized Service Plan (ISP), Plan of Care (POC), or Family Service Plan.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with youth and their families.
- Encourage participation in age-appropriate recreational, educational, and community activities.
- Support the development of daily living, communication, social, and coping skills.
- Maintain a structured, nurturing, and supportive environment.
- Utilize positive behavior support strategies and approved de-escalation techniques when appropriate.
- Assist with personal care and activities of daily living (ADLs), when authorized by the service plan.
- Prepare light meals or snacks as appropriate.
- Maintain ongoing communication with caregivers regarding services provided.
- Observe, document, and report changes in behavior, health, or safety concerns.
- Complete all required documentation accurately and within agency timelines.
- Report incidents, accidents, injuries, or suspected abuse or neglect immediately in accordance with agency policy and New Jersey reporting requirements.
- Follow all Quality First Support Group policies, CSOC standards, HIPAA regulations, and Medicaid documentation requirements.
Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Education, or a related field preferred.
- Experience working with children or adolescents with:
- Intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Behavioral or emotional challenges
- Mental health needs
- Medical or physical disabilities
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and maintain professionalism in family homes and community settings.
- Reliable transportation required.
Required Certifications and Training
Prior to providing services, employees must complete agency-required orientation and maintain all required certifications, including:
- CPR Certification
- First Aid Certification
- Positive Behavior Support and Crisis Prevention training (as required)
- HIPAA and Confidentiality Training
- Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting Training
- Mandated Reporter Training
- Cultural Competency Training
- Trauma-Informed Care Training
- Agency Orientation and Annual Refresher Training
Required Background Checks
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all required screenings, including:
- Criminal History Background Check (Fingerprinting)
- Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) Check
- Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities (when applicable)
- Medicaid Exclusion Screening
- Office of Inspector General (OIG) Exclusion Screening
- New Jersey Treasury Debarment Screening
- Motor Vehicle Record Review (if transporting youth)
Physical Requirements
The employee must be able to:
- Lift, carry, or assist with up to 50 pounds when necessary.
- Bend, kneel, sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
- Participate in recreational and community activities.
- Respond appropriately during behavioral or medical emergencies.
Work Environment
Services are provided in:
- Family homes
- Community settings
- Recreational facilities
- Libraries
- Parks
- After-school activities
- Other approved community locations
Work schedules may include:
- Afternoons
- Evenings
- Weekends
- School breaks
- Holidays, based on family needs
Core Competencies
Successful candidates demonstrate:
- Compassion and patience
- Professionalism and reliability
- Strong communication skills
- Respect for family culture and values
- Sound judgment and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to establish positive relationships with children and families
- Commitment to person- and family-centered care
Benefits
Eligible employees may receive:
- Competitive hourly wages
- Flexible scheduling
- Paid orientation and training
- Career advancement opportunities
- Mileage reimbursement (when applicable)
- Supportive supervision and ongoing professional development
- Employee recognition programs
Equal Employment Opportunity
Quality First Support Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal or New Jersey law.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
