Youth Development Specialist in Ozone Park, New York at FOREST HILLS COMMUNITY HOUSE

Queens Community House (QCH) is a multi-site nonprofit organization serving the diverse communities of Queens through programs for children, youth, adults, and older adults. Our mission is to empower individuals and families by providing the tools to enrich their lives and build healthy, inclusive communities.

We are a modern interpretation of the traditional settlement house, bringing innovative leadership and a commitment to social and economic justice. We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about changing lives and making a lasting impact.

QCH is seeking a Youth Development Specialist to join the team at John Adams Young Adult Borough Center (YABC). This role provides comprehensive support services to students, serving as their primary point of contact and guiding them through internship preparation, post-secondary planning, and career readiness.

The ideal candidate will be an engaging, resourceful, and proactive professional with experience working with high school-aged youth.

• Conduct individual counseling sessions focused on academic progress and career advisement.
• Provide guidance on post-secondary planning, including college, vocational training, and employment pathways.
• Assist eligible students with CUNY and FAFSA application processes.
• Monitor academic progress by reviewing progress reports and report cards, offering targeted support as needed.
• Make appropriate referrals to external resources and services for students and families.

• Organize and lead workshops on job readiness, career exploration, conflict resolution, leadership, and psychoeducation.
• Support students in resume building, interview preparation, and employment applications.
• Collaborate with DOE staff to maintain structured communication between students and teachers.

• Conduct attendance outreach, including home and worksite visits, to address attendance concerns.
• Maintain ongoing communication with parents and guardians to support student success.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences, staff meetings, and professional development sessions.

• Maintain accurate case files and weekly progress notes in Salesforce.
• Track student progress, engagement, and program outcomes.
• Take initiative in responding to school and program needs, participating in special projects as assigned.

✔ Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Education, or a related field preferred.
✔ Experience working with youth in a NYC high school setting.
✔ Knowledge of college and career readiness and youth development.
✔ Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
✔ Reliable, punctual, and professional.
✔ Comfortable using technology and learning new systems.
✔ DOE fingerprint clearance (or ability to obtain before start date).
✔ Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, as required by school events and home visits.

🕒 Schedule: Monday – Thursday: 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (subject to change based on program needs).

Queens Community House offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including:
✅ Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
✅ Life Insurance & 403(b) Retirement Plan
✅ Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
✅ Generous Paid Time Off (Sick, Vacation, and most federal holidays)
✅ Professional Development & Growth Opportunities

📩 Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter.

Queens Community House is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

🚫 Drug-Free Workplace.