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Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

Youth Program Specialist

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Kearney, Nebraska, United States, 68847

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About the Position Youth Program Specialist

– Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Youth Rehabilitation & Treatment Center (YRTC), Kearney, NE.

Job Description Make a real impact as a Youth Program Specialist. You will empower young people to discover strengths, build confidence, and move toward brighter futures. Your work will involve structure, mentorship, and compassion to help youth develop skills for a law‑abiding, successful future.

Responsibilities

Supervise youth during daily routines and activities

Facilitate life skills training, recreational programming, and therapeutic interactions

Model positive behavior and maintain professional boundaries

Document youth behaviors and progress

Respond to crisis situations while ensuring safety

Actively support individual growth plans in a team environment

Occasionally transport youth as needed

Maintain physical readiness, including walking, standing, occasional lifting, and intervening physically when necessary

Minimum Qualifications Must be at least 21 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Preferred Qualifications Coursework or training in social work, criminal justice, counseling and guidance, human development, psychology, mental health care, education, social/behavioral sciences, or related area; OR experience in child or youth care, teaching, foster care, delinquency prevention, juvenile court systems, community work, behavioral health systems, patient care, nursing, or other areas involving contact with youth or families. Experience working with youth/adolescents strongly preferred.

Other Requirements This position requires proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking) and a valid driver’s license.

Benefits

156% state‑matched retirement

13 paid holidays plus generous leave starting immediately

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

$20,000 employer‑paid life insurance

Tuition reimbursement and professional development

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Fun, mission‑driven, supportive team environment

Job stability in public service

Equal Opportunity Statement The State of Nebraska values our teammates and promotes 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.

Contact & Application Hiring Agency: Health & Human Services Agency 25 Location: Kearney, NE Hiring Rate: $27.32/hour plus shift differential for qualifying shifts. Second and third shift available.

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