Prevention Specialist

Position title: Prevention Specialist

Department: Prevention

Address: Various locations in NW/West Chicago and near West suburbs (Cook County)

Schedule: Monday through Friday ; hours will vary based on program need but will generally be between 7:30a-5:30p. Some remote work options are possible after the introductory period, as programming allows.

Salary: $46,00-49,000
- Depending on qualification and experience

We are looking for motivated, energetic individuals who are passionate about assisting adolescents in making healthy life choices!

Under the direction of the Program Manager, the Prevention Specialist provides evidence‑based prevention curriculum lessons related to substance use and/or teen pregnancy prevention within select schools throughout Chicago and the Lyons/Proviso Township area. The Prevention Specialist delivers engaging, interactive classroom facilitation and is comfortable leading lessons independently as well as collaboratively with co‑facilitators or school partners. Works with teachers and school personnel to develop programming for specified grades (6th–12th) and demonstrates the ability to manage a classroom environment, adapt to student needs, and utilize effective presentation skills to maintain youth engagement.

Prepares materials (handouts, PowerPoint slides, etc.) needed for classroom‑based presentations and works both independently and as part of a team to ensure consistent, high‑quality programming across multiple school sites. Collects and enters all necessary data for grant reporting. The Prevention Specialist also participates in activities designed to raise community awareness of issues related to adolescent substance use and pregnancy prevention.

Provides community education and outreach regarding the programs. Attends community/partner meetings related to Prevention activities. Maintains all documentation as required by funders.

During the summer months, the Prevention Specialist will also participate in the One Summer Chicago youth employment program. Assists in identifying employers willing to place youth ages 16‑24 for employment. Provides weekly mentoring and monitoring to the youth during their employment term. Prepares presentations on relevant employment‑related topics to provide to youth. Collects and enters all necessary data for grant reporting.

• Make a meaningful impact by equipping adolescents with the knowledge and skills needed to make healthy, informed decisions.
• Full training in the evidence‑based curricula is provided as available
• Ongoing training in relevant topics
• Gain experience in providing school‑based interventions
• Opportunity to educate community partners on issues related to adolescent substance use and teen pregnancy prevention
• Opportunity to work with young people and assist them in making positive choices
• Opportunity to assist youth in developing life skills towards future employment

• Bachelor's degree in social services/public health preferred. Will consider some college credit with significant experience as a substitute for a degree.
• Valid driver's license and daily access to own vehicle required
• Some experience working with adolescents in a professional capacity (teaching, mentoring, coaching, camp counselor, etc) preferred
• Prior experience facilitating groups, teaching, or presenting to youth in structured settings strongly preferred.
• Comfortable leading discussions, managing group dynamics, and engaging diverse groups of adolescents.
• Self‑motivated, dependable, and able to work independently while also contributing positively to a team‑oriented environment.
• Demonstrated passion for empowering youth and supporting their ability to make responsible, informed choices.
• Knowledge of/prior experience in substance use and/or teen pregnancy prevention programming preferred
• Bilingual (Spanish) a plus

• Health, Dental, Vision
• Life Insurance
• Short/Long‑Term Disability options
• 403(b) Retirement
• Paid Time off (PTO)
• Mileage Reimbursement (exclusive to position)
• Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness

YOS is an E‑Verify participating employer.

Youth Outreach Services is a drug‑free workplace, and compliance with this policy is a condition of employment and continued employment.

Youth Outreach Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.