FEATURED JOB OPENING: Cottage Parents - Florida

The cottage parent couple (husband and wife team) is on duty (24 hours) for 8 days and 4 days off duty.  During the 8 days on the couple resides in a cottage with 10 teenage girls (ages 8 – 18). 

The youth are referred by their families because they are having a difficult time at home.  The youth are not juvenile delinquents, but have maybe started heading in the wrong direction and have possible attitude issues.  Our program is voluntary meaning the youth agrees to coming to the program which usually last about a year or until the youth and family agree that they are ready for reunification.  Some youth stay with us until they are ready to move out on their own after they turn 18. 

During their shift, the cottage parents role model appropriate parenting skills.  They teach the girls social skills, work program, recreation, and household chores.  Cottage parents help with transportation to school events, recreation, shopping, and other activities.  During the 4 days off housing is not provided (you will need your break away from the campus).  This position can be very demanding, difficult, stressful, and can be frustrating at times.  The long term rewards are worth it!  When a youth leaves program and calls back to report on how well they are doing or how much their cottage parents helped them, it makes it all worthwhile.

Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent (some college credits are preferred.)  Must be at least 21 years of age, can pass criminal/FBI screening, have a valid Florida driver’s license or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment, a good driving record, a concern for youth, the ability and strong desire to work and live with youth in the human services field.

Salary and Benefit Information

• $47,840 annual starting salary per couple ($23,920 each)
• Housing, food, and utilities provided while on duty
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Comprehensive medical insurance (Youth Ranches pays 90% of employee cost of medical insurance and 60% of dependent costs)
• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance provided at no cost to employee
• Dental, vision, and variety of supplemental insurance plans available
• Excellent retirement plan with 100% vesting after three years of service
• Specific professional skill-based training
• Tax sheltered annuity program
• Full-service credit union
• Employee assistance program
• Work schedule - eight days on; four days off (You are responsible for your living arrangements on the days off).