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Job description
Salary Range $18.00 Hourly
Position Type Part Time
Job Shift Weekend
Education Level High School/GED
Travel Percentage Minimal
Category Direct Care - Emergency Services/Shelter
Turning weekends into moments that matter.
YSS is on the hunt for a Part-time, Weekend Youth Specialist to join our Youth Opportunity Center team in Des Moines—aka someone who can bring structure, support, and just the right amount of fun to the weekend shift.
You’ll help create a safe, respectful space where youth can land, reset, and just be kids for a minute. You’ll keep the days structured (but never boring), make sure basic needs are met, and show up as a steady, supportive presence. From leading group activities to handling real-life moments as they come, you’re the one helping keep things running smoothly—and meaningfully.
Required work shifts for this position are:
Saturday: 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Sunday: 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm
What You'll 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.
If you’ve got the patience of a saint, the instincts of a coach, and the ability to pivot faster than weekend plans change, you’ll fit right in.
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. You’re reliable, team-oriented, and driven to do work that makes a real impact .
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.
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
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
Experience working with youth or vulnerable populations
Basic computer skills and comfort learning systems like EMRs
Preferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:
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
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 language in addition to English (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 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... 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
Worksite address
des moines, IA, 50319, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.