Youth Development Specialist at FOREST HILLS COMMUNITY HOUSE – Jamaica, New York

Youth Development Specialist – Learning to Work (LTW) Program
Full Time
South Queens, NY, US

Salary Range:
$21.98 To $23.00 Hourly

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.

The Learning to Work (LTW) Program at VOYAGES Preparatory High School – South Queens serves more than 265 students ages 16–21 who are over-age and under-credited. Through academic support, counseling, and career readiness, LTW helps students earn their high school diploma and successfully transition into college, careers, or vocational training.

QCH is seeking a Youth Development Specialist to join the LTW team at VOYAGES Preparatory High School – South Queens. This role provides comprehensive academic, attendance, and career-readiness support to students, serving as a primary point of contact and helping young people stay on track to graduate and succeed beyond high school.

The ideal candidate is an engaging, organized, and youth-centered professional with experience supporting high school–aged students in school or community-based settings.

• Support students in developing post-secondary goals (college, vocational training, or employment)
• Provide individual academic and career counseling (minimum two sessions per student)
• Monitor attendance and academic performance and provide timely interventions
• Assist students with CUNY, FAFSA, and college applications
• Refer LaGuardia, BMCC, and QCC applicants to the CASP Case Manager

• Facilitate group sessions on job readiness, leadership, conflict resolution, and civic engagement
• Support students with career exploration and post-secondary readiness
• Collaborate with teachers, DOE staff, and agency partners to support student success

• Conduct attendance outreach, including home and worksite visits when needed
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student progress
• Participate in school and agency meetings and events

• Maintain accurate documentation in Salesforce and the New Visions Portal
• Track student engagement, attendance, and outcomes
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned

✔ Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Education, or a related field preferred
✔ Minimum of 2 years of experience working with youth in school or community-based settings
✔ 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 prior to start date)

🕒 Schedule:
Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
(Occasional evenings required for school events and field trips)

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 – Up to 27 annual leave days (17 in your first year), 12 sick days, and most federal holidays
✅ Professional Development & Growth Opportunities

📩 Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter through the Queens Community House Career Portal.

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.