Youth Development Specialist

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
The Program Specialist will focus on the development and implementation of the Formula for Impact and programs within the Five Core Program areas (Character & Leadership Development, Education & Career Development, The Arts, Health & Life Skills, and Sports, Fitness & Recreation). This role requires creativity, adaptability, and the ability to take initiative in designing and executing impactful programs for incarcerated youth. The Program Specialist will also ensure all academic and enrichment program requirements for various initiatives and grants are met.

The ideal candidate is self-motivated, organized, creative, and thinks outside the box while being open to coaching and professional development. This role requires flexibility, problem-solving skills, and a passion for youth engagement.

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities):

• Develop and implement engaging, innovative programs at Ventura County Juvenile Hall that foster youth participation and growth.
• Take initiative in designing dynamic and interactive activities that cater to diverse learning styles.
• Work directly with incarcerated youth, establishing trusting and supportive relationships while maintaining a structured, safe environment.
• Maintain the organization and appearance of the Club at Ventura County Juvenile Hall to provide a welcoming space.
• Manage grant requirements, maintain detailed records, collect and track data, and generate timely, accurate reports to ensure compliance.
• Maintain and organize program-related documents, ensuring efficiency in reporting and evaluation.
• Promote and stimulate interest in activities through creative outreach, including bulletin board displays, flyers, and newsletters (without photos of members).
• Coordinate and implement spontaneous recreational activities that encourage social development and leadership.
• Work collaboratively with Juvenile Hall staff, Ventura County Probation, and families to recognize member achievements and address concerns.
• Ensure program areas are safe, engaging, and inclusive by encouraging diverse activities and participation.
• Maintain order and discipline by reinforcing Club rules and implementing positive behavior management strategies.
• Be open to mentorship, feedback, and continuous learning to enhance program effectiveness.
• Keep all member’s information confidential.
• Follow all organizational policies, laws, and mission guidelines while maintaining professional attire and conduct.
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and events as requested, provide quality customer service, enforce discipline plans, communicate with supervisors, and engage with VCPA, Behavioral Health, Providence school and external partners.

Requirements

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• A self-starter who takes initiative, communicates well and thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• A minimum 1-2 years’ experience working in related field preferred, teen experience, system involved youth
• Highly organized with strong clerical skills to manage program documentation and reporting.
• Ability to think creatively and problem-solve when engaging youth in meaningful activities.
• Open-minded and adaptable to new approaches in youth programming.
• Willingness to be coached and professionally developed to enhance leadership skills.
• A minimum of two years of completed college courses (48 college units) in SOE, PSY, CJ, or a related field.
• Ability to pass all required background checks and clearances.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Ability to supervise large groups of children and coordination of their activities.
• May require to ability to stand for long periods;
• Moderate lifting will be required from time to time.
• Require the mobility to stand, stoop, reach and bend;
• Require the mobility of arms to reach and dexterity of hands to grasp and manipulate small objects;
• May require the ability to walk long distances
• Required to work evenings and weekends;
• May be required to use personal vehicle in the course of employment.

DISCLAIMER:

The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, or to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

Schedule: Monday - Friday; 11am - 8pm

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme is committed to selecting and retaining the best staff and volunteers to serve our youth. As part of the initial selection process, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme will conduct reference checks in accordance with the following policy.

Employment is contingent based upon successful completion of references and clearance of background checks.

Benefits

• Insurance Benefits (Medical/Dental/Vision)
• 401k (after meeting eligibility criteria)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation/Personal/Sick Time)
• Annual Salary: 40k - 42k