Youth Care Specialist Paid Learning Opportunity (CNM DEGREE STUDENTS ONLY) - AMIKids Trans Living

***This opportunity is only open to CNM-Central New Mexico Community College students***

Albuquerque Multi-service Group Home operated by AMIkids Sandoval provides emergency transitional living and supportive services for males ages 13-18 referred by protective services, juvenile justice, parental unit, or tribal social services based on a finding/suspected finding of abuse, neglect, delinquency, substance use, or other at-risk problems.

Why Intern With AMIkids?  

We empower young people to discover their true potential. We’re a national youth organization offering education and workforce development, treatment, and behavioral and skills training. Our approach fosters care and a sense of family to transform lives. At heart, relationships and hope are in our DNA, and for more than 50 years we’ve been empowering young people to achieve success and believe: I Can.  

Video: Empowering Young People to Believe: I CAN Website: www.AMIkids.org  

The Ideal Candidate: 

AMIkids is seeking an energetic and passionate Youth Care Specialist Intern to support youth supervision, engagement, and skill-building within our emergency transitional living program. This hands-on opportunity is ideal for college students or recent graduates who want to make an impact while gaining experience in youth development, behavioral support, and residential care. 

You’ll work closely with program leadership to support males ages 13–18 by assisting with guidance in behavior choices and helping reinforce social, self-help, academic, and daily living skills in a safe and structured environment.  

We welcome candidates who possess:

• The ability to build trust, establish rapport, and maintain positive relationships with youth from diverse backgrounds,
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to model appropriate behavior and set clear expectations for youth,
• The ability to remain calm, professional, and responsive in high-stress or crisis situations,
• Experience or interest in behavior management, youth supervision, or working in structured environments,
• Strong observation and decision-making skills to ensure the safety and well-being of youth,
• Reliability, accountability, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team,
• A commitment to safety, structure, and supporting at-risk or underserved youth populations.

Paid Learning Opportunity Requirements:

• Possess a high school diploma/GED

• Currently enrolled at CNM, in a degree program, 

• Available up to 20 hours per week (M-F, and weekend shifts available),
• Open to participating in program activities, training, and hands-on learning experiences,

• Willing to commit to 6-months - 1 year of training.

Key Responsibilities – As a Participant Recruitment Intern, You Will:

• Support the supervision and safety of youth in accordance with program guidelines
• Assist in serving as a positive role model and building relationships with youth in the program
• Help reinforce social, communication, and independent living skills through daily interactions
• Observe and support behavior intervention strategies and crisis response techniques
• Assist with monitoring youth during daily routines, including structured activities and quiet hours
• Support completion of basic documentation and shift updates as assigned
• Participate in team debriefs and meetings to gain insight into youth progress and program operations
• Assist in maintaining a safe, clean, and structured environment for youth
• Support program activities, outings, and special events as needed
• Learn and apply best practices in youth engagement, behavior management, and residential care

What's in it for you?
 As well as gaining an opportunity to make an exceptional difference in kids’ lives, AMIkids offers a supportive environment with access to resources and benefits that support your growth, including:  

•  Growth opportunities – we pride ourselves on developing our leaders from within
• Wellness Benefits – Access to EAP, mental health resources, and stress management support
• Networking – Direct engagement with youth development professionals and program leadership
• Experience That Matters – Real-world responsibilities that prepare you for full-time roles