Statewide Substance Use Prevention Manager

Join YSS as our Statewide Substance Use Prevention Manager and play a vital role in creating safer, healthier, and more resilient communities across Iowa. In this leadership position, you will guide the strategic coordination, implementation, and long-term sustainability of YSS’s statewide substance use prevention and early intervention programs.

You will collaborate closely with prevention staff, schools, community coalitions, local agencies, subcontractors, and other stakeholders to design and deliver programs that are inclusive, evidence-based, and trauma-informed. Central to this work is empowering youth to be active partners and leaders—engaging in community agencies, businesses, schools, and government—to help shape solutions that affect their lives and communities.

This role also leads the development and promotion of prevention and youth development initiatives, fostering meaningful connections, supporting youth voice, and creating opportunities for community-wide participation. By combining strategic vision, collaboration, and a deep commitment to equity and well-being, the Manager helps build sustainable programs that prevent substance use, promote resilience, and strengthen the fabric of communities across the state.

What You'll Do...Oversee statewide prevention and early intervention programs, including planning, implementation, and staff supervision.

Manage substance use prevention programs, deliver evidence-based curricula, and support youth engagement and leadership statewide.

Coordinate programs to meet grant and funding requirements, including data tracking, reporting, and budget oversight.

Lead and participate in community coalitions, build relationships with schools and local agencies, and serve as a consultant/resource.

Promote programs through public speaking, media outreach, and statewide marketing efforts.

Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and grant-related meetings to support program goals.

This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.

Who You Are...You are a collaborative leader who is passionate about preventing substance use and helping young people thrive. You enjoy building strong partnerships, empowering youth to be part of the solution, and leading programs that create meaningful, lasting change. With a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on leadership, you know how to turn ideas into impact.

What We Provide...We invest in people—because when you thrive, so do the communities we serve. At YSS, you’ll find meaningful work, strong support, and benefits designed for real life.

Supportive Culture & Work Environment Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture

Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees

Health & Wellness Benefits Comprehensive health insurance

Voluntary dental and vision insurance

Life insurance and long-term disability coverage

Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) / Health Savings Account (HSA) options

Flu shots and mental health support resources

Paid membership to the Athletic Club of Ames Time Off & Work-Life Balance Generous paid time off (4 weeks PTO)
Paid holidays, including a birthday holiday

Volunteer time off Financial & Retirement Benefits Competitive salary

Supplemental compensation award
403(b) retirement savings plan Professional & Career Support Professional liability insurance coverage

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer

We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values
- Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a “Can Do” Spirit.

Required Qualifications - MUST HAVES:

Bachelor’s degree in education, child development, human services, family environment, sociology, social work, or a related field, or an Associate’s degree with equivalent relevant experience and skills..Minimum of two years of experience in prevention, youth development, or related work.

Motivational Interviewing certification (or willingness to obtain after…