Youth Specialist

Job Description:

Job Title: Youth Specialist 

Location: Springfield, Missouri 

Department: Employment Services 

Employment Type: Full Time 

Job Summary: 
Join our compassionate and collaborative team as a Youth Specialist, where you will make a meaningful difference in the lives of current and former foster youth. In this role, you will provide essential services and financial assistance, helping youth develop the skills and resources necessary for independence and self-sufficiency. We are looking for individuals who are dedicated, empathetic, and skilled in supporting youth through their unique challenges. Your work will empower youth to achieve their goals in education, employment, and daily living. 

As a Youth Specialist, you will conduct instructional and support activities tailored to each youth’s individualized plan. You will facilitate their development in areas such as career planning, job seeking, and financial management, ensuring they are equipped for a successful transition into adulthood. 

This position offers…. 

• Employee Assistance Program – 24/7 counseling services, legal assistance, & financial consultation for you and your household at no cost  

• Mileage Reimbursement – Company paid for work functions requiring travel 

• Employee Discounts – Hotels, Theme Parks & Attractions, College Tuition 

• Workplace Culture - An environment cultivating employee wellbeing, valuing each individual's humanity, and actively promoting a healthy, joyful workforce.  

• Additional Perks & Benefits - Scroll down to bottom of this post to learn more 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Treat all youth, referral sources, stakeholders, and team members with dignity and respect. 

• Develop and maintain a working knowledge related to serving youth and young adults, with specific expertise related to youth in foster care. 

• Collaborate with Family Support Teams to create and/or update plans for service using SNAP (strengths, needs, abilities, preferences) principles. 

• Assist youth in identifying obstacles to living independently and developing supportive social networks. 

• Facilitate the development of individualized service plans with each youth, contributing to the Individualized Action Plan (IAP). 

• Establish supportive, professional relationships with each youth assigned. 

• Develop strategies and lessons necessary to facilitate achievement of individualized plan goals. 

• Serve as a community resource specialist for youth, families, and referral sources. 

• Track and document expenditures, collect receipts, and solicit donations prior to making purchases. 

• Promote the organization and services through participation in community events and awareness activities. 

Education, Experience, and/or Credential Qualifications: 

• A high school diploma or equivalent certificate is required; an associate’s or bachelor's degree in an applicable field from an accredited institution is preferred. 

• Experience in foste