Youth Services Specialist

General Description

This is a professional position. Incumbent is primarily responsible for the coordination of department activities and community capacity building to promote and enhance youth related services. This includes providing logistical and developmental support as an advisor to 8th to 12th grade youth in the Hanover Youth Service Council, coordinating and developing youth programming and participating in community engagement within the county.

This position provides opportunities for youth development and for the expression of “youth voice” within local government initiatives and in the community. Requires the performance of professional and administrative tasks, including program development and volunteer management.

The Youth Services Specialist is a part of the Department of Community Resources team and reports to the Deputy Director of Community Resources. The Youth Services Specialist supervises youth volunteers and volunteer staff.

• Serves as the lead staff contact for awareness and knowledge of youth related services and leadership development programs available to youth within our county.
• Advises the Hanover Youth Service Council, planning and implementing youth service projects, leadership development opportunities, training and events.
• Develops youth programming and promotes the year-round engagement of Hanover youth in volunteer service.
• Compiles data and prepares reports as needed.
• Researches and facilitates or develops grant proposals as appropriate to support internal or collaborative projects.
• Facilitates or participates in relevant training and networking opportunities among youth program leaders and volunteer managers.
• Provides information and referral regarding community resources and volunteer programs.
• Assists with the planning and implementation of department-wide service projects and events as needed.
• Supports department functions as necessary, including oversight of Hanover Youth Service Council and Youth Services webpages and social media communications.
• Performs related work as assigned.

• Hazards
• None Known
• Environment
• Office – 60%
• Field – 40% Travel may be necessary to perform essential functions.
• Physical Effort
• Moderate
• FLSA
• Non-Exempt

Requires the performance of professional and administrative tasks, including program development and volunteer management. Previous experience working with youth or in youth development required. Knowledge of youth leadership development and community service desired. Experience working in volunteer management and/or program management preferred. Knowledge of human services programs, youth-serving organizations and community resources are desired. Must be able to work effectively with youth, plan and manage work independently, maintain effective working relationships with youth and adults, maintain confidentiality, and communicate both orally and in writing.

Basic computer skills required with advanced skills desired. This position requires the coordination and implementation of volunteer opportunities and events outside of the normal work schedule. Incumbent must be able to effectively manage time, to communicate needed schedule changes with supervisor, and to effectively coordinate events and volunteer opportunities to ensure continuity of essential job functions.

Bachelor’s degree required with at least two years of experience working with youth or in youth development required. Experience working in volunteer management and/or program management is preferred –
OR any equivalent combination of education, experience and/or training sufficient to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities is acceptable.

• Criminal Records Check, including fingerprinting
• Must obtain a Driver's License within 30 days of employment to be eligible to operate a county vehicle
• CPS (Child Protective Services) Check
• Occasionally work beyond normal work schedule including nights and weekends
• Twelve-month probationary period