Youth Specialist (55389)

• Keep a watchful eye on clients at all times—knowing where they are, what they’re doing, and how they’re doing
• Set the tone by modeling respect, boundaries, and solid life skills
• Guide daily routines so clients know what to expect and can feel grounded

• Lead group sessions on social skills, coping strategies, and everyday life skills
• Turn chores into teachable moments—laundry, cleaning, and basic independence
• Plan activities that get clients moving, engaged, and maybe even laughing

• Step in during crises with calm, clear intervention
• Document behaviors, incidents, and progress—because details matter
• Complete intakes, reports, and client logs with accuracy and care

• Take referral calls and help connect individuals to the right services
• Gather key information and support the intake/admissions process
• Work closely with your team and supervisors to make smart, timely decisions

• Help maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming facility
• Run safety drills (fire, tornado—Midwest perks) and ensure readiness
• Pitch in with meals, snacks, and the occasional “we need this fixed ASAP” moment

• Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture.
• Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment.
• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits.
  • Health insurance
  • Voluntary dental insurance
  • Voluntary vision insurance
  • Life insurance and long-term disability coverage
  • Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance
  • Professional liability insurance coverage
  • Flexible spending account/health savings account
  • Supplemental compensation award
• Generous Paid Time off and Leave
  • Four weeks of paid time off (PTO)
  • Volunteer time off
  • Paid holiday leave
  • Birthday holiday
• Wellness Program Opportunities
  • Paid membership to the Athletic Club of Ames
  • Employee Assistance Program for all employees
  • Flu shots
  • Mental health support
• YSS is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer.
• 403(b) retirement offerings

What We Ask...

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience working with youth or vulnerable populations
• Basic computer skills and comfort learning systems like EMRs
• Travel is required for this position. For YSS insurance purposes, you must:
  • be 21 years of age,
  • have a current, valid, state-issued, driver’s license, and
  • have a clean driving record.

• Bachelor's degree in human services, social work, psychology, education, or a related field.
• One year of experience in the management and supervision of adolescents in a residential setting.
• Comfortable stepping into high-stress or unpredictable situations and responding with calm, sound judgment
• Experience leading or facilitating groups, activities, or skill-building sessions (think life skills, social skills, or recreational programming)
• Strong documentation skills—you can capture what happened clearly, accurately, and without writing a novel
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care, de-escalation techniques, or behavior management systems (or a willingness to learn fast)
• Experience balancing multiple responsibilities at once—supervising, engaging, documenting, and solving problems on the fly
• Knowledge of community resources and referral processes

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

1. Apply - Fill out the online app atyss.org/ysscareers.
2. Assessment - We’ll check out your skills and experience.
3. Interview - Phone, video, or in-person - we’ll chat and get to know you.
4. References - Send us three+ people who can sing your praises.
5. Screening - Background and driving checks (plus license verification if needed).
6. Offer - If it’s a match, you’ll get a formal offer through Paycom.