Youth Program Specialist-YRTC-Kearney

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services; Kearney (NE); On-site; USD 27,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Tuition reimbursement

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is seeking Youth Program Specialists to support youth at the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney. Candidates will supervise daily activities, support youth development, and respond to crises. Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma and being at least 21 years old. Compensation starting at $27.32/hour with benefits such as medical insurance and retirement plans. Join a diverse and inclusive team focusing on positive youth impact.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Preferred coursework in social work or human development.
• Proficiency in English required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise youth in daily activities.
• Document behavior in records.
• Respond to crisis situations.
• Serve as a role model.

Skills

Supervision

Crisis intervention

Communication

Behavior documentation

Mentorship

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

myAvatar database

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

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.

Key Opportunities

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.

Responsibilities

• Supervise youth in daily activities (remain in sight and sound of youth at all times).
• Document behavior in written and electronic records.
• Use computer systems (email, Word, Excel, database programs such as myAvatar).
• Respond to crisis situations.
• Serve as a role model to the youth.
• Transport youth when required.
• Perform physical tasks: standing, walking, occasional lifting, and intervene physically if necessary.
• Execute light housekeeping duties in shared staff areas.
• Assist with medication distribution after completing the required Med Aide training.
• Participate in the programming plan for youth, including group meetings, team meetings, and family team meetings.
• Understand adolescent development, crisis intervention, and behavioral techniques.
• Maintain strong communication, building supportive relationships and staying calm in crises.
• Organize work, observe behavior, and document progress.
• Knowledge of the applicable programs and policies.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Must be at least 21 years of age, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and have a valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications: Coursework or training in social work, criminal justice, counseling, human development, psychology, mental health, education, or related fields; or experience working with youth in child or youth care, foster care, delinquency prevention, juvenile court systems, community work, behavioral health systems, patient care, nursing, or similar roles. Experience with youth/adolescents strongly preferred.

Additional Requirements: Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking, comprehension). Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Compensation and Benefits

Hiring rate is $27.32 per hour plus shift differential for qualifying shifts. Work shifts: 2nd shift (2:00 PM – 10:00 PM) and 3rd shift (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM).

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

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.