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!  for detailed information or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!

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

NOTES:

• 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.