Youth Support Specialist 230PM1030PM

Avenues for Youth; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 28,612 - 30,996; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance available

Employer-paid dental, life, AD&D, and disability coverage

Paid time off and holidays

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Staff appreciation events

Job summary

Avenues for Youth in Minneapolis seeks a Youth Support Specialist to provide essential support to youth experiencing homelessness. This full-time, onsite role focuses on building positive relationships and helping young people develop skills for long-term stability.

The ideal candidate has a relevant Bachelor's degree and experience with youth or human services. Benefits include health insurance and paid time off.

Qualifications

• Experience working with youth or in human services preferred.
• Must be at least 24 years of age.

Responsibilities

• Build positive, professional relationships with youth.
• Support youth in developing life skills and daily structure.
• Complete documentation accurately and promptly.

Skills

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience

Job description

Job Title:

Youth Support Specialist

Location:

Minneapolis Avenues (Onsite)

Reports To:

Program Manager

Status:

Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Our Mission:

At Avenues for Youth, we partner with youth experiencing homelessness to help them achieve housing stability and build pathways to independence. Through a social justice lens, we provide safe, affirming spaces where young people can define their futures and thrive.

Position Overview:

The Youth Support Specialist provides direct support to youth in a structured, safe, and supportive environment. This role focuses on building positive relationships, supporting daily routines, and helping youth develop the skills needed for long-term stability and independence. This is a fully onsite, hands‑on role working closely with youth.

Schedule:

Monday – Friday, 2:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Compensation:

Pay range: $20.77 – $22.50/hour

Primary Responsibilities – Youth Engagement & Support:

• Build positive, professional relationships with youth
• Provide mentoring and support with routines, meals, and independent living skills
• De‑escalate conflicts and maintain a safe environment
• Support youth in developing life skills and daily structure
• Maintain a safe and structured environment
• Complete room checks and follow shift expectations
• Answer phones and manage building access
• Support daily operations and program routines
• Encourage youth participation in chores and community expectations

Primary Responsibilities – Program Operation:

• Maintain a safe and structured environment
• Complete room checks and follow shift expectations
• Answer phones and manage building access
• Support daily operations and program routines
• Encourage youth participation in chores and community expectations

Primary Responsibilities – Communication & Documentation:

• Complete documentation accurately and promptly
• Provide clear shift updates to team members
• Maintain professional communication with staff and leadership

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience
• Experience working with youth or in human services preferred
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Must be at least 24 years of age

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

This is an onsite role requiring standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 25 pounds.

Benefits:

• Health insurance available
• Employer‑paid dental, life, AD&D, and disability coverage
• Paid time off and holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Staff appreciation events

Commitment to Equity & Inclusion:

Avenues for Youth is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.