Youth Development Specialist

Queens Community House; Hempfield Township (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health coverage

403(b) retirement plan with contribution

Up to 27 days of paid annual leave

Full salary during approved family leave

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

13 paid holidays

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Westmoreland County seeks a Youth Development Specialist for the Learning to Work program. The role involves helping high school students achieve their post-secondary goals through counseling and support. Ideal candidates should possess a relevant degree and experience in youth work. A comprehensive compensation package is offered, emphasizing health benefits, work-life balance, and professional growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Experience working with youth in school or community-based settings (2+ years).
• Familiarity with college and career readiness.
• Comfort using technology and willingness to learn new platforms.

Responsibilities

• Help students develop and pursue meaningful post-secondary plans.
• Provide academic and career-focused individual counseling.
• Facilitate advisory groups on job readiness and civic engagement.
• Monitor student academic progress and provide timely support.
• Lead outreach efforts to promote student attendance.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Education, or related field

Job description

Join Our Mission to Empower Youth in Queens!

About Queens Community House (QCH):

Queens Community House (QCH) is a dynamic, multi-site settlement house dedicated to strengthening the diverse communities of Queens. We offer a wide range of programs and services for children, youth, families, and older adults—empowering individuals with the tools they need to build healthy, vibrant, and inclusive communities.

We’re looking for passionate and driven professionals who are ready to make a lasting impact and grow with an organization rooted in service, equity, and opportunity.

Position: Youth Development Specialist – Learning to Work (LTW) Program

Location: VOYAGES Preparatory High School – South Queens

Schedule: Full-time, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (occasional evenings required for field trips and school events)

About the Program:

The Learning to Work (LTW) program at VOYAGES Prep – South Queens serves over 265 high school students, ages 16–21, who are over-age and under-credited. Through personalized academic support, counseling, and real-world readiness, LTW helps students overcome challenges, earn their high school diploma, and transition into college, career, or vocational training.

What You’ll Do:

• Help students develop and pursue meaningful post-secondary plans (college, vocational training, or employment).
• Provide academic and career-focused individual counseling (minimum two sessions per student).
• Facilitate advisory groups on topics such as job readiness, leadership, conflict resolution, and civic engagement.
• Monitor student academic progress and provide timely support and interventions.
• Lead daily outreach efforts to promote attendance, including home and worksite visits as needed.
• Support students with college applications, including CUNY and FAFSA submissions.
• Refer students applying to LaGuardia, BMCC, or QCC to our CASP Case Manager.
• Maintain consistent communication with families to support student success and wellbeing.
• Keep thorough records of all interactions in Salesforce and the New Visions Portal.
• Partner with teachers to identify student needs and implement support plans.
• Participate in school events, staff meetings, and agency-wide activities.
• Collaborate with DOE staff and remain flexible to support evolving program needs.
• Take on additional responsibilities and special projects as needed.

What We’re Looking For:

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Education, or a related field (preferred).
• At least 2 years of experience working with youth in school or community-based settings.
• Familiarity with college and career readiness, youth leadership, and employment support.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to punctuality, reliability, and professional integrity.
• Comfort using technology and a willingness to learn new platforms.
• DOE fingerprint clearance (or ability to obtain it before start date).

Why Join QCH?

We value our team and offer a competitive compensation package that includes:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement Plan: 403(b) with QCH contribution
• Work-Life Balance: Up to 27 days of paid annual leave and 12 sick days
• Paid Family Leave: With full salary supplement during approved leave
• Additional Perks: Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and 13 paid holidays
• Growth Opportunities: Ongoing professional development and networking

Equal Opportunity Employer

Queens Community House is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. We welcome candidates of all backgrounds and identities and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or any other protected status.

Drug-Free Workplace

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now to become part of a passionate team dedicated to transforming lives and building stronger communities.