Lighthouse Youth Specialist PT (55310)
Des Moines, IA - USA
Job Summary
YSS is seeking a compassionate dependable and relationship-driven part-timeYouth Specialist to support young people in our Transitional Living Center (TLC). In this role youll help create a safe structured and supportive environment where youth can build the skills they need to move toward independence.
This position may include daytime evening weekend and overnight shifts.
Purpose
The Youth Specialist supervises and supports youth in the Transitional Living Center ensuring their safety and well-being while fostering growth accountability and independence. This role builds trusting relationships with youth while maintaining consistent structure and program expectations.
What Youll Do
Youth Supervision & Support
- Provide direct supervision of youth in a safe respectful and structured environment
- Build supportive relationships while consistently enforcing program rules and expectations
- Monitor daily routines including curfew chores hygiene and activities
- Maintain awareness of youth whereabouts and behavior at all times
Basic Needs & Daily Living
- Ensure youth have access to food clothing hygiene products and other essential needs
- Assist with transportation to appointments employment and community resources
- Support youth in managing income and savings expectations
Life Skills Development
- Teach and model independent living skills such as:
- Budgeting and money management
- Cooking cleaning and grocery shopping
- Job readiness and employment skills
- Healthy relationships and communication
- Problem-solving and decision-making
Program Support & Intake
- Assist with initial client interviews and referrals
- Help determine program eligibility in collaboration with program leadership
- Provide resources and referrals for youth not eligible for services
- Share program information with youth families and referral sources
Safety & Accountability
- Conduct urinalysis testing and room searches as needed
- Respond to incidents and contact on-call staff during emergencies
- Support medical needs including medication administration and documentation
- Ensure facility safety cleanliness and maintenance needs are addressed
Documentation & Team Collaboration
- Complete shift logs reports and required documentation accurately and timely
- Participate in team meetings trainings and supervision
- Facilitate group activities and house meetings to build community and resolve conflict
What You Bring
- Passion for working with youth and helping them succeed
- Ability to build trust while maintaining boundaries and accountability
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Ability to remain calm and responsive in high-stress situations
- Flexibility to work a variety of shifts including overnights
Why YSS
At YSS we put kids first. Our team is driven by our mission to create hope and opportunity and our vision of a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong.
What we offer:
- Meaningful mission-driven work
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Training and development opportunities
- Wellness and employee support programs
- Opportunities to grow your career while making an impact
Our Core Values
We look for team members who live out our values:
Commitment Compassion Collaboration Innovation Integrity Can-Do Spirit
If youre ready to make a difference in the lives of youth and be part of a team that leads with purpose and heart wed love to hear from you.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications & Skills
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
- Minimum of one (1) year of experience in the human services field
- Strong active listening skills with the ability to learn and adapt quickly
- Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Effective communication skills both verbal and written
- Ability to coordinate and collaborate effectively with team members and external partners
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage resources efficiently
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively both independently and in coordination with others
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
At YSS, we strengthen families by providing education, counseling, and stability through a wide variety of youth mental health services.