Youth Program Specialist-YRTC-Kearney
Quick Summary
Minimum Qualifications: Must be at least 21 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent education. Preferred Qualifications: Coursework/training in; social work, criminal justice,
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Why This Work Matters
You'll walk alongside youth with complex behaviors on their journey toward healing, growth, and stability. Through structure, mentorship, and compassion, you’ll help youth develop the skills and mindset needed to become successful, law-abiding citizens.
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Our Mission:
“Help youth live better lives through effective services, giving youth the chance to become law-abiding citizens.”
If you're passionate about positively influencing future generations, this is your opportunity to be part of something bigger.
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What We Offer
We support the people who support our youth. Enjoy outstanding benefits, job security, and a team that feels like family.
• 156% state-matched retirement — one of the best in the nation
• 13 paid holidays + generous leave starting immediately
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• $20,000 employer-paid life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement & professional development
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Fun, mission-driven, and supportive team environment
• Job stability in public service
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Who We are
The Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney (YRTC-K) is accredited by the American Correctional Association, owned and operated by the Department of Health and Human Services, and the State of Nebraska. YRTC-K serves male youth between the ages of 14 and just before the age of 19. All youth committed to the facility are adjudicated (ordered) by the court, committed until the age of 19 or till they complete the programming
Supervise youth in daily activities (Be in sight and sound of youth at all times).
Document behavior (Written and on the computer).
Computer knowledge- email, Word, Excel, database programs myAvatar
Respond to crisis situations.
Serve as a role model to the youth.
May be required to transport youth.
Work requires physical stamina/strength, standing, walking, occasional lifting, and the ability to physically intervene if needed.
Light housekeeping duties (shared staff areas clean and neat).
Med aide duties (all med aide staff must pass the med aid class prior to distributing medication to youth. This class is provided as part of new employee training).
Participate in the programming plan for youth, including but not limited to attending group meetings, team meetings, and family team meetings.
Requirements
~1 min readUnderstanding of adolescent development, crisis intervention, and behavioral techniques
Strong communication skills — especially when engaging with youth
Ability to build purposeful, supportive relationships
Skill in organizing work, observing behavior, and documenting progress
Ability to remain calm and effective in crisis situations
The Department of Health and Human Services uses behavioral based questions when conducting interviews. Please review the attached document to learn more about the STAR Method, and how you can best prepare if you are selected for an interview!
For more information about the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Division of Children and Family Services, please visit our website, http://dhhs.ne.gov/careers
What We Offer
~1 min readThe State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.
Location & Eligibility
Listing Details
- First seen
- October 3, 2026
- Last seen
- October 3, 2026
Posting Health
- Days active
- 0
- Repost count
- 0
- Trust Level
- 51%
- Scored at
- October 3, 2026
Signal breakdown
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