Career Opportunities

Becoming part of the Sweetser family means you can make a difference in the lives of Maine children, adults, and families every day. As a nationally recognized and accredited leader, we offer competitive salaries, a wide range of benefits and the opportunity to join a passionate team of more than 700 employees. 

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$19 per hour | $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!

Full-Time Schedule:

• Saturday, Sunday, Monday 8am-8pm

Make a difference. Have fun. Help kids thrive.

Do you enjoy working with kids, getting creative, and helping others feel supported? At Sweetser, you can turn those interests into a rewarding career!

As a Residential Support Specialist - Youth, you'll support children navigating mental health challenges while helping them build confidence, develop life skills, and create positive experiences. No two days are exactly alike! From cooking together and planning fun activities to supporting kids through challenging moments, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day.

Think bowling trips, outdoor adventures, trips to the beach, arts and crafts, self-care activities, cooking, and helping kids discover new interests. You'll be more than a staff member — you'll be a positive role model, a source of encouragement, and someone who helps children recognize their potential.

And the best part? You don't need years of experience to get started! Sweetser provides extensive paid training, professional development, and opportunities to grow your career in behavioral health.

Why Join Sweetser?

• $5,000 sign-on bonus!
• Start at $19 per hour, with the opportunity to advance to Residential Support Specialist II after six months and completion of required training and certifications — including a $1-per-hour increase upon successful completion of the requirements.
• Extensive paid training and certifications to help you succeed.
• Meaningful work where you can see the difference you make.
• Opportunities to grow into leadership, case management, and clinical careers.
• Full-time and per diem opportunities available.

Sweetser has been voted the top mental health nonprofit in the Biddeford/Saco area through Best of Surveys!

THE IDEAL PERSON WOULD:

• Provide direct care by displaying the role of tutor, role model, cook and source of emotional support.
• Provide assistance by creating and following developmentally appropriate recreational activities.
• Transport clients to home visits, appointments, etc.
• Maintain a safe and effective milieu by participating in the provision of a structured, therapeutic environment.
• Collaborate with staff and families to achieve desired treatment outcomes.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Desire to work with children in need.
• Clean and valid Maine driver's license.
• Persons with lived experience in the Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse system are encouraged to apply.
• Must be able to speak, read and write English fluently.

EDUCATIONAL/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or GED with the ability to work with difficult-to-manage youth.
• Capacity to develop a professional orientation to child care.
• Ability to relate to children with warmth and understanding and have the ability to identify the needs and problems of children.
• Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with other professionals on behalf of youth and their families.

POTENTIAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES:

• Higher Level Youth & Family Counselor.
• Supervisory Positions.
• Case Management and Clinical (with education).

Comprehensive Benefits Package Includes:

• Medical/dental/vision insurance and HSA/FSA options with generous employer contributions
• Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and household members
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and float day
• Paid Family and Medical Leave
• Employee discount program
• Milage reimbursement, applicable incentive and differential pay programs
• Eligibility for annual increases and referral bonuses
• Tuition reimbursement and educational partnership discounts
• 30% tuition discount for UNE's Online Graduate Programs
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program
• Free professional development and training opportunities through the Sweetser Training Institute