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Job description
Position Type Part Time
nJob Shift Any
nEducation Level High School/GED
nTravel Percentage Up to 25%
nCategory Direct Care - Emergency Services/Shelter
nFor the quick thinkers, steady hearts, and youth champions.
nAre 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 Specialist to join our Youth Opportunity Center in Des Moines !
nIn this role, you’ll work alongside a supportive crew to create a safe, structured, and respectful environment where youth can grow, build confidence, and feel supported. You’ll help guide daily routines, build meaningful connections, lead activities, and support clients through both everyday moments and tougher challenges.
nNo two days are ever quite the same — and that’s 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 everyone’s hungry. Around here, flexibility, teamwork, and compassion go a long way.
nWhat You'll Do...
nnnSupervise and support clients while maintaining a safe, structured, and respectful environment
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nnBuild positive relationships and model healthy communication, boundaries, and life skills
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nnLead groups, activities, and daily routines that help clients grow, learn, and stay engaged
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nnManage group dynamics and provide calm, effective crisis intervention when needed
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nnComplete client logs, incident reports, intakes, and other documentation accurately and on time
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nnSupport admissions, referral calls, and team decision-making
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nnHelp maintain a clean, safe facility and assist with meals, safety drills, and daily operations
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n nThis is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.
nWho You Are...
nYou 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 .
nWhat We Provide...
nWe 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.
nnnSupportive leadership team and mission-driven culture
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nnFlexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment
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nnEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees
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nnFlu shots and mental health support resources
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nnSupplemental compensation award
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nnProfessional liability insurance coverage
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nnPublic Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer
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n nWhat We're Looking For...
nWe 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.
nRequired Qualifications - MUST HAVES:
nnnBachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field.
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nnTravel, including transporting clients, is required for this position. For YSS insurance purposes, you must:
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nnbe 21 years of age,
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nnhave a valid, state-issued, driver's license,
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nnhave a clean driving record, and
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nnhave adequate insurance coverage per YSS policy.
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n nPreferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:
nnnOne year of experience in the management and supervision of adolescents in a residential setting.
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nnAbility to communicate, verbally and non-verbally, with excellent observational, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
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nnAbility to collaborate and able to work effectively with others regardless of backgrounds, identities, and status.
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nnAbility to use critical thinking skills to problems solve.
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nnAbility to manage resources effectively.
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nnAbility to manage one’s own time and the time of others.
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n nTHE IDEAL CANDIDATE
nnnIs rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
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nnBrings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
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nnSpeaks a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).
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n nWe Celebrate Your Story...
nHave 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.
nWho We Are...
nWe’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.
nnnFrom life-changing programs to a new 50-acre recovery campus, we’re expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at yss.org.
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nnWe 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.
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nnYSS is a nicotine-free workplace.
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n nStay 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
nHiring Process... Here’s what to expect:
nnnApply – Submit your application at yss.org/ysscareers
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nnAssessment – We review your skills and experience
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nnInterview – Phone, video, or in-person conversation
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nnReferences – We’ll connect with 3+ professional references
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nnScreening – Background check, driving record check, and license verification if required
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nnOffer – If it’s a match, you’ll receive a formal offer through Paycom
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Worksite address
des moines, IA, 50319, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.