Weekend Youth Specialist - PT (56082)

YSS; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Assistance Program

Employee Recognition Program

Personal Wellness Programs

Pet Insurance Discounts

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Retirement Savings Opportunities

Ongoing Training and Professional Dev.

Job summary

YSS in Des Moines, IA seeks a Part Time Direct Care – Supportive Housing Worker to build trusting relationships with youth and provide consistent support. You will supervise activities, teach practical life skills, connect youth with resources, and assist with program goals toward independent living.

The role requires a High School Diploma or GED, 1+ year in human services, 21+, and a valid driver's license with proper insurance to drive YSS vehicles. Weekend shifts are included.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Minimum of 1 year experience in human services.
• 21 years or older with a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Insurance meeting YSS standards is required to drive a YSS vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Build trusting relationships with youth and provide consistent support and encouragement.
• Supervise daily activities and maintain a welcoming environment.
• Teach life skills like budgeting, cooking, laundry, and job searching.
• Connect youth with resources, assist with appointments and opportunities.
• Lead house meetings and group activities; resolve conflicts.
• Assist with applications, documentation, and program goals for transition.
• Respond to emergencies and monitor well‑being with compassion.
• Maintain documentation and support team operations.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Active listening

Patience and empathy

Team collaboration

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: DSM Lighthouse – Des Moines, IA 50316
Position Type: Part Time
Education Level: High School/GED
Salary Range: $17.00 Hourly
Travel Percentage: Up to 25%
Job Shift: Weekend (Saturday & Sunday, 9:00am – 8:00pm)
Job Category: Direct Care – Supportive Housing

Responsibilities

• Build trusting relationships with youth and provide consistent support and encouragement.
• Supervise daily activities, support routines, and maintain a welcoming environment.
• Teach practical life skills such as budgeting, cooking, laundry, job searching, transportation, communication, and healthy relationships.
• Connect youth with resources, assist with appointments, community services, employment opportunities, and other supports.
• Facilitate house meetings, group activities, conflict resolution, and problem‑solving opportunities.
• Assist with applications, assessments, required paperwork, and program goals for transition to independent living.
• Respond to emergencies, follow program guidelines, monitor client well‑being, and address concerns with compassion and consistency.
• Maintain accurate documentation, support facility needs, manage supplies, and assist with team operations.
• Collaborate with the team through meetings, trainings, supervision, and support of other program needs.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED.
• At least one year of experience in the human services field.
• Be at least 21 years old.
• Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Carrying insurance that meets YSS standards (to drive a YSS vehicle).

Preferred

• Initiative and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including active listening.
• Critical thinking and problem‑solving abilities.
• Adaptability to changing priorities and ability to learn new processes.
• Customer‑service mindset and strong interpersonal skills.
• Collaboration and teamwork with community partners.
• Time and resource management with attention to detail.
• Fluency in a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).

Benefits

• 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

Who You Are

You show up with compassion, patience, and a steady presence. You value building trust before skills, are passionate about helping young people gain confidence and independence, stay calm under pressure, and embrace each day as a new opportunity. You are not afraid to jump in wherever needed.

Equal Opportunity Statement

YSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and succeed. YSS is a nicotine‑free workplace.