Youth Development Specialist

Milton Hershey School, a cost-free private residential school serving students from pre-K through 12th grade, is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Youth Development Specialist to join its Education, Training & E-Learning department. In this role, you will work directly with children and adolescents from diverse backgrounds, supporting their academic, social, and emotional growth in alignment with MHS’s mission and values. You will build strong, trusting relationships with students, provide daily guidance and mentoring, and help create a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment. Responsibilities include supervising students in classrooms and educational settings, reinforcing academic and behavioral expectations, and collaborating closely with teachers, administrators, student home staff, and counselors to support holistic student development. You will assist with implementing individualized learning and behavior support plans, monitor student progress, and document observations to inform interventions and supports. The Youth Development Specialist will facilitate character-building and life-skills activities, promote positive peer interactions, and model respectful, inclusive behavior at all times. You will also help plan and lead educational enrichment, after-school programs, and co-curricular activities that foster personal growth, resilience, and leadership. This position requires strong communication and problem-solving skills, the ability to de-escalate challenging situations, and a commitment to trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices. Ideal candidates have prior experience working with youth in educational, residential, or community-based programs, along with an understanding of child and adolescent development. A minimum of a H.S. diploma or equivalent is required; post-secondary education in education, social work, psychology, or a related field is strongly preferred. Youth development or teaching certifications, CPR/First Aid, and crisis intervention training are beneficial. As part of Milton Hershey School’s supportive and mission-driven culture, the Youth Development Specialist contributes to a team that values diversity, collaboration, and continuous learning. This is a full-time role based on campus in Hershey, Pennsylvania, with a primarily on-site work environment and occasional flexible hours to support evening or weekend student activities. Competitive compensation and benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement savings options, are typically offered, along with meaningful opportunities to positively impact students’ lives every day.