Youth Development Specialist II

Youth Development Specialist

The Wyoming Girls' School (WGS) is a therapeutic and educational facility dedicated to helping court-ordered girls aged 12-21 build brighter futures. Our mission is to provide trauma-responsive care in a safe, nurturing environment where students can grow and thrive.

As a Youth Development Specialist, you will play a vital role in shaping the lives of young women by fostering accountability, emotional growth, and life skills. Working during active programming hours (12:00 p.m.

- 10:00 p.m.), you will provide mentorship, supervision, and support while ensuring a secure and structured environment.

The State of Wyoming's total compensation package is excellent and includes:

• Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance.
• Paid holidays, vacation and sick leave.
• Retirement investment options with employer contributions.
• Comprehensive Benefits package including Health, Dental, Life, Vision, Short Term Disability, and more with an employer contribution toward premiums.
• Longevity Pay.

Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities and MUCH MORE! Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov

Human Resource Contact: kristin.martinez

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.

• Act as a positive role model, providing mentorship and emotional support to residents.
• Communicate and document the individual needs of each resident, collaborating with families and staff to tailor their care plans.
• Supervise, guide, and motivate residents during daily activities, ensuring they meet program expectations.
• Manage crises with professionalism and in compliance with training in de-escalation techniques.
• Lead residents in structured activities, promoting personal growth and accountability.
• Safely transport residents to off-campus activities and appointments.
• Explain program rules, policies, and expectations to new residents during their intake process.
• Support educational goals by encouraging academic progress and assisting with assignments.
• Assist residents with medications and ensure their medical needs are met.
• Promote a positive, trauma-informed culture that fosters trust, growth, and healing.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Understanding of trauma-informed care and youth development principles.
• Familiarity with safety and security protocols in a residential setting.
• Proficiency in crisis management techniques.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Experience Substitution:

2-4 years of progressive work experience (typically in Youth Services) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Youth Services Specialist

OR

Education:

Associate's Degree (typically in Social Services)

Experience:

0-2 years of progressive work experience (typically in Youth Services) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Youth Services Specialist

FLSA:
Non-Exempt

All positions within the Department of Family Services will require a background information check, including the taking of fingerprints, which will be completed through the Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Family Services, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for every successful applicant.

Working for the State of Wyoming means more than a job — it's a stable, rewarding career that lets you make a difference while enjoying a great quality of life.

• Comprehensive health coverage – medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family
• Voluntary Benefits – including life insurance for you and family members, ambulance, pet insurance, short/long-term disability, flex spending and health savings accounts
• Multiple retirement options – including the Wyoming Retirement System and a 457B account, helping you plan for long-term financial security
• Generous paid leave and flexible schedules – vacation, sick leave, paid FMLA and 11 paid holidays each year
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility – for those with qualifying student loans
• Training and professional development – to support your career growth and advancement
• Employee Assistance Program – Includes paid short-term counseling, legal, financial and work-life benefits and select employee discounts
• Wellness Program – Earn paid time off and incentives by focusing on your personal health

Know your full value. Your paycheck is only part of the picture. The State of Wyoming offers a Total Compensation Calculator that shows the full value of your salary plus benefits, so you can clearly see what your complete compensation package looks like.

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WORKING FOR THE GREATEST STATE IN THE NATION – Wyoming offers a lifestyle you can't find anywhere else — wide-open spaces, clean air, friendly communities, year-round recreation, and no state income tax.