Make a Real Impact as a Youth Program Specialist
Youth Rehabilitation & Treatment Center – Kearney, Nebraska
At the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center (YRTC) in Kearney, action speaks louder than words — and your actions can change a life.
As a Youth Program Specialist, you’ll play a hands-on role in empowering young people to discover their strengths, build confidence, and move toward brighter futures. This isn’t just a job — it’s a purpose-driven career where each day brings an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
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Why This Work Matters

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.
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Our Mission:

“Help youth live better lives through effective services, giving youth the chance to become law-abiding citizens.”
If you're passionate about positively influencing future generations, this is your opportunity to be part of something bigger.
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What We Offer You

We support the people who support our youth. Enjoy outstanding benefits, job security, and a team that feels like family.

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

As a Youth Program Specialist, you will:

• 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

Requirements / Qualifications:

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

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

Other: This position requires proficiency in English, including the ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend the language effectively. Must possess a valid drivers license.

Hiring rate of position is $ 27.32/hour plus shift differential for qualifying shifts. Second and 3rd shift available.

Knowledge & Skills That Help You Succeed:

• Understanding of adolescent development, crisis intervention, and behavioral techniques
• Strong communication skills — especially when engaging with youth
• Ability to build purposeful, supportive relationships
• Skill in organizing work, observing behavior, and documenting progress
• Ability to remain calm and effective in crisis situations

The Department of Health and Human Services uses behavioral based questions when conducting interviews. Please review the attached document to learn more about the STAR Method, and how you can best prepare if you are selected for an interview!

For more information about the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Division of Children and Family Services, please visit our website, http://dhhs.ne.gov/careers

Pay: From $27.32 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid orientation
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person