Weekend Youth Specialist - PT (56082)

Salary Range $17.00 Hourly

Position Type Part Time

Job Shift Weekend

Education Level High School/GED

Travel Percentage Up to 25%

Category Direct Care - Supportive Housing

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.

• 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 protected] . 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 protected] 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 protected]

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