Weekend Youth Specialist - PT (56082)

## Where Safe Housing Becomes a New Beginning.

At **YSS**, every day is different—and every day matters. As a **Weekend Youth Specialist** in our Transitional Living Program, you'll be part mentor, part coach, part problem-solver, and one of the most consistent adults in a young person's life. You'll help youth build confidence, learn everyday life skills, and take meaningful steps toward independence—all while creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming place they can call home. Whether you're helping someone prepare for a job interview, teaching them how to cook dinner, or simply being there to listen, you'll make a lasting impact.

The schedule for this position is **Saturday & Sunday, 9:00 am - 8:00 pm**. If hired, you must be able to work at least three weekends per month.

**What You'll Do...**

• **Be a consistent source of support and encouragement** by building trusting relationships with youth and providing the guidance, structure, and accountability they need to thrive.
• **Create a safe place to call home** by supervising daily activities, supporting routines, and maintaining a welcoming environment where youth can focus on their goals.
• **Help youth take the next steps toward independence** by teaching practical life skills like budgeting, cooking, laundry, job searching, transportation, communication, and healthy relationships.
• **Connect youth with the resources they need** to succeed by assisting with basic needs, appointments, community services, employment opportunities, and other supports.
• **Support youth through challenges and celebrations** by facilitating house meetings, group activities, conflict resolution, and problem-solving opportunities.
• **Guide youth through their transition to independent living** by assisting with applications, assessments, required paperwork, and program goals.
• **Promote safety and stability** by responding to emergencies, following program guidelines, monitoring client well-being, and addressing concerns with compassion and consistency.
• **Help keep the program running smoothly** by maintaining accurate documentation, supporting facility needs, managing supplies, and assisting with team operations.
• **Collaborate with a dedicated team** through meetings, trainings, supervision, and support of other program needs as they arise.

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

**Who You Are...**

You're the kind of person who **shows up with compassion**, patience, and a steady presence. You know that **building trust comes before building skills**, and you're passionate about helping young people gain the confidence and independence they need to thrive. You stay calm under pressure, embrace every day as a new opportunity, and **aren't afraid to jump in** wherever you're needed.

**What We Provide...**

We invest in people—because when you thrive, so do the communities we serve. At **YSS**, you’ll find meaningful work, strong support, and benefits designed for real life.

• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Program
• Personal Wellness Programs
• Pet Insurance Discounts
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer
• Retirement Savings Opportunities
• Ongoing Training and Professional Development

## What We're Looking For...

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:**

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• At least one (1) year of experience in the human services field
• You’ll be driving a YSS vehicle, so we need you to:
• Be at least 21
• Have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record
• Carry insurance that meets YSS standards

**Preferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:**

• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including active listening.
• Proven critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and learn new processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a customer service mindset.
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members and community partners.
• Demonstrated ability to manage time and resources efficiently while maintaining attention to detail.

**The IDEAL Candidate**

• 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 instability? Your 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 you’re ready to use it to **uplift and empower others**, we warmly encourage you to apply.

**Who We Are...**

We’re **YSS**—one of Iowa’s 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, we’re expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at [<yss.org>](https://yss.org/).
• We value the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences each team member brings. As an **Equal Opportunity Employer**, we’re 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 via **email** - straight from our Paycom system address: **[email hidden]**. Please check your inbox regularly (and your spam/junk folder just in case). If the message does end up in spam/junk, make sure to add **[email hidden]** to your list of safe senders. We may also send you **texts** if you give us that permission when you apply. Questions? Reach us anytime at [[email hidden]](http://[email hidden])

**Our Hiring Process - Here’s What to Expect...**

• **Apply** – Submit your application at <yss.org/ysscareers>
• **Assessment** – We review your skills and experience
• **Interview** – Phone, video, or in-person conversation
• **References** – We’ll connect with 3+ professional references
• **Screening** – Background check, driving record check, and license verification if required
• **Offer** – If it’s a match, you’ll receive a formal offer through Paycom