We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a “Can Do” Spirit. Additionally, we ask for the following:
MUST HAVES - Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field *.
- Proficient with data entry and the use of Microsoft products including Word, Outlook, etc.
- Travel, including transporting clients, is required for this position. For YSS insurance purposes, you must:
- be 21 years of age,
- have a valid, state-issued, driver's license,
- have a clean driving record, and
- have adequate insurance coverage per YSS policy.
SHOULD HAVES - Preferred Qualifications
- One year of experience in the management and supervision of adolescents in a residential setting.
- Ability to communicate, verbally and non-verbally, with excellent observational, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
- Ability to collaborate and able to work effectively with others regardless of backgrounds, identities, and status.
- Ability to use critical thinking skills to problems solve.
- Ability to manage resources effectively.
- Ability to manage one’s own time and the time of others.
The IDEAL Candidate Will:
- Be mission-driven, with a commitment to equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
- Possess a strong desire to make a positive difference for youth and their families is key.
- Consistently approach their work with humility, respect, and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.
- Demonstrate reliability and independence, managing responsibilities with minimal supervision.
- Speak a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).
Who we are (and why you'll love us)...
We’re YSS—one of Iowa’s oldest and largest nonprofits dedicated to uplifting youth and putting kids first. Our mission? To spark hope, create opportunities, and help young people thrive through education, counseling, and support that actually makes a difference. With a passionate, diverse leadership team and our brand-new, 50-acre recovery campus,
we’re growing fast and thinking big. We're not just keeping up with the times—we're shaping the future of care for youth and families in Iowa. Want to know more about our mission and all the awesome things we’re up to? Visit
yss.org!
At YSS, we don’t just talk about diversity and inclusion—we live it, celebrate it, and grow from it every day. We believe the best teams are made up of all kinds of people, with all kinds of perspectives. That’s what makes us strong, creative, and downright awesome. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we’re all about creating a space where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to succeed—no matter your background, identity, or hairstyle. Our commitment to equity and inclusion is woven into everything we do, and we’re always working to do better, together.
YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.
Heads Up! Don’t Miss Our Messages! - Most of our communication with applicants happens through email—straight from our Paycom system. Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox (and maybe your spam/junk folder too, just in case our message took a detour). Got questions about your application or just want to say hi? Shoot us an email at
recruitment@yss.org - we’re happy to help!
The YSS Hiring Process
- Apply – Fill out the online app at yss.org/ysscareers.
- Assessment – We’ll check out your skills and experience.
- Interview – Phone, video, or in-person—we’ll chat and get to know you.
- References – Send us three+ people who can sing your praises.
- Screening – Background and driving checks (plus license verification if needed).
- Offer – If it’s a match, you’ll get a formal offer through Paycom.
* Applicable Degrees: Addiction Counseling, Addiction Studies, Adolescent Psychology, Behavioral Health, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Child Psychology, Clinical Mental Health, Corrections, Counseling, Criminal Justice, Education, Family Science, Family Studies, Family Therapy, Human Services, Juvenile Justice, Juvenile Rehabilitation, Mental Health, Nursing, Psychology, Public Administration, Public Health, Rehabilitation Services, Social Work, Therapeutic Recreation, Youth Development, Youth Services
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