Youth Program Specialist II - YRTC-K

son; Kearney (NE); On-site; USD 25,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

156% state-matched retirement

13 paid holidays

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance

Tuition reimbursement & professional开发

EAP

Team oriented and mission-driven

Job summary

The Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney, NE is hiring a Youth Program Specialist II. You will supervise male youths, provide mentorship, document behavior, and respond to crises while upholding safety and structure within the facility.

Applicants should have a high school diploma and a strong commitment to helping youth achieve healthier, law-abiding paths. The role includes teamwork, training, and potential extent of responsibility within the program.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications: Must be at least 21 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Preferred Qualifications: coursework in social work, counseling, psychology or related field; experience with youth care or related youth services.

Responsibilities

• Supervise youth in daily activities.
• Document behavior using written records and computer systems.
• Respond to crisis situations as needed.
• Serve as a role model to youth.
• May transport youth when required.
• Engage in programming planning and attend meetings.

Skills

Youth care

Mentoring

Communication

Crisis response

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Word

Excel

myAvatar database

Job description

Hiring Agency: Health & Human Services - Agency 25

Location: Kearney, NE

Hiring Rate: $28.140

Job Posting: JR2026-00030018 Youth Program Specialist II - YRTC-K (Evergreen) (Open)

Job Description

Job Description Summary

At the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney, we're not just about words - we're about action! Our Youth Program Specialists are the driving force behind the transformation, inspiring youth to believe in themselves and the endless possibilities that await them. Together, let's empower youth to embrace their strengths and chart a course to success.

Why This Work Matters

You'll walk alongside youth with complex behaviors on their journey toward healing, growth, and stability. Through structure, mentorship, and compassion, you'll help youth develop the skills and mindset needed to become successful, law-abiding citizens.

Our Mission

"Help youth live better lives through effective services, giving youth the chance to become law-abiding citizens." If you're passionate about positively influencing future generations, this is your opportunity to be part of something bigger.

What We Offer

• 156% state-matched retirement - one of the best in the nation
• 13 paid holidays + generous leave starting immediately
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• $20,000 employer-paid life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement & professional development
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Fun, mission-driven, and supportive team environment
• Job stability in public service

Who We are

The Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney (YRTC-K) is accredited by the American Correctional Association, owned and operated by the Department of Health and Human Services, and the State of Nebraska. YRTC-K serves male youth between the ages of 14 and just before the age of 19. All youth committed to the facility are adjudicated (ordered) by the court, committed until the age of 19 or till they complete the programming.

Responsibilities

• Supervise youth in daily activities (Be in sight and sound of youth at all times).
• Document behavior (Written and on the computer).
• Computer knowledge- email, Word, Excel, database programs myAvatar.
• Respond to crisis situations.
• Serve as a role model to the youth.
• May be required to transport youth.
• Work requires physical stamina/strength, standing, walking, occasional lifting, and the ability to physically intervene if needed.
• Light housekeeping duties (shared staff areas clean and neat).
• Med aide duties (all med aide staff must pass the med aid class prior to distributing medication to youth. This class is provided as part of new employee training).
• Participate in the programming plan for youth, including but not limited to attending group meetings, team meetings, and family team meetings.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications: Must be at least 21 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent education.
• Preferred Qualifications: Coursework/training in; social work, criminal justice, counseling and guidance, human development and the family, psychology, mental health care, education, social/behavioral sciences, human services or related area; OR Experience in: child or youth care, teaching, foster care delinquency prevention, juvenile court systems, community work related to children and youth, behavioral health systems, patient care, nursing or other areas involving contact or interaction with youth or families. Experience working with youth/adolescents strongly preferred.
• Other: This position requires proficiency in English, including the ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend the language effectively. Must possess a valid drivers license.

The Department of Health and Human Services uses behavioral based questions when conducting interviews. Please review the attached document to learn more about the STAR Method, and how you can best prepare if you are selected for an interview!

For more information about the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Division of Children and Family Services, please visit our website, http://dhhs.ne.gov/careers