Youth Specialist PT (56219)

Are you quick on your feet calm under pressure and passionate about helping youth find their footing YSS is looking for a compassionate dependable Part Time Youth Specialistto join our Youth Opportunity Center in Des Moines!

In this role youll work alongside a supportive crew to create a safe structured and respectful environment where youth can grow build confidence and feel supported. Youll help guide daily routines build meaningful connections lead activities and support clients through both everyday moments and tougher challenges.

No two days are ever quite the same and thats part of what makes this work meaningful. One moment you might be leading a group activity the next helping a client through a difficult moment and somewhere in between making a late-night grilled cheese run because suddenly everyones hungry. Around here flexibility teamwork and compassion go a long way.

What Youll Do...

• Supervise and support clients while maintaining a safe structured and respectful environment
• Build positive relationships and model healthy communication boundaries and life skills
• Lead groups activities and daily routines that help clients grow learn and stay engaged
• Manage group dynamics and provide calm effective crisis intervention when needed
• Complete client logs incident reports intakes and other documentation accurately and on time
• Support admissions referral calls and team decision-making
• Help maintain a clean safe facility and assist with meals safety drills and daily operations

This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.

Who You Are...

You stay calm under pressure lead with empathy and know how to set clear consistent boundaries. You connect easily with youth think on your feet and handle challenges with confidence and sound judgment. Youre reliable team-oriented and driven to do work that makes a real impact.

What We Provide...

We invest in peoplebecause when you thrive so do the communities we serve. At YSS youll find meaningful work strong support and benefits designed for real life.

• Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture
• Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees
• Flu shots and mental health support resources
• Supplemental compensation award
• Professional liability insurance coverage
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer

We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment Collaboration Compassion Innovation Integrity and a Can Do Spirit.

Required Qualifications - MUST HAVES:

• Bachelors degree in Human Services or a related field.
• Travel including transporting clients is required for this position. For YSS insurance purposes you must:
  • be 21 years of age
  • have a valid state-issued drivers license
  • have a clean driving record and
  • have adequate insurance coverage per YSS policy.

Preferred Qualifications- SHOULD HAVES:

• One year of experience in the management and supervision of adolescents in a residential setting.
• Ability to communicate verbally and non-verbally with excellent observational listening speaking and writing skills.
• Ability to collaborate and able to work effectively with others regardless of backgrounds identities and status.
• Ability to use critical thinking skills to problems solve.
• Ability to manage resources effectively.
• Ability to manage ones own time and the time of others.

THE IDEALCANDIDATE

• Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity inclusion and positive social impact.
• Brings humility respect and cultural awareness to every interaction.
• Speaks a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).

We Celebrate Your Story...

Have you navigated recovery from addiction mental health challenges trauma or housing instabilityYour lived experience offers a unique compassionate perspective that can inspire real change. By sharing your story and serving as a role model or mentor you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and families.Your journey matters. If youre ready to use it to uplift and empower others we warmly encourage you to apply.

Who We Are...

Were YSSone of Iowas largest and longest-standing nonprofits dedicated to putting kids first. Our mission is simple but powerful: spark hope create opportunity and help young people thrive.

• From life-changing programs to a new 50-acre recovery campus were expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at .
• We value the unique backgrounds identities and experiences each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer were committed to building a respectful inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and succeed.
• YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.

Stay Connected...We communicate with applicants by email through our Paycom system. Please check your inbox regularly (and your spam/junk folder just in case). We may also send you text messages if you give us that permission when you apply. Questions Reach us anytime at

Hiring Process...Heres what to expect:

• Apply Submit your application at We review your skills and experience
• Interview Phone video or in-person conversation
• References Well connect with 3 professional references
• Screening Background check driving record check and license verification if required
• Offer If its a match youll receive a formal offer through Paycom