Youth Development Specialist

Job Title: Youth Development Specialist Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) designs, implements, and supports high-quality youth programs that promote social-emotional growth, academic success, and post-secondary readiness. This role plays a central part in both the Aspiring Professionals Program (WRAP) and Wesley-Rankin’s out-of-school-time programming (Afterschool and Summer Camp). The YDS builds strong relationships with students, coordinates engaging learning experiences, collaborates with staff and partners, and ensures programs meet organizational goals. Key Responsibilities WR Aspiring Professionals (WRAP) Program Co-lead planning and implementation of WRAP 101 and WRAP Advanced, including mentorship program, post-secondary readiness, skill development and financial literacy sessions, as well as parent engagement strategies with the College & Career Manager. Share case management responsibilities with the College & Career Manager, tracking student progress and providing individualized support. Support recruitment and engagement of WRAP students and families, including planning and facilitating monthly family engagement activities. Assist in coordinating events, workshops, and summer internship-related logistics. Plan and implement engaging, culturally responsive, relevant afterschool and summer camp programming for youth (summer camp grades 7-9, afterschool grades 7-12) through curriculum development and partnership cultivation. Plan and implement lessons, clubs, and activities that promote leadership, positive youth development, community, life skill development, and academic success. Build strong, trusting relationships with students and a classroom culture that supports consistent attendance, positive behavior, and retention. Provide leadership, guidance and accountability to seasonal part-time staff. Work closely with the Volunteer & Advancement team on volunteer recruitment, coordination, retention, events, and communication. Partner with the Data team to ensure accurate data entry, goal tracking, evaluation plans and strategies, as well as continuous quality improvement strategies. Collaborate with the rest of the Children’s & Youth Education team to support alignment across grade levels, support other programs as needed, and share relevant best practices. Additional Responsibilities Participate in fundraising, recruitment, and community engagement activities (e.g., note-writing, speaking engagements, promotion events). Provide transportation to participants in 15-passenger vans as needed for field trips and Qualifications: Required: Bachelor’s degree in education, or a related field (or equivalent experience). Minimum of 3 years of experience in youth development, teaching, or a related role. Strong understanding of youth development and instructional practices. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience using assessment tools or data systems to track student progress. Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and culturally responsive practice. Bilingual in English and Spanish (verbal and written). Preferred: Experience in community-based or nonprofit education settings. Work Schedule: Full-time, in-person position based in West Dallas. Schedule varies seasonally (school year versus summer) and includes consistent Health insurance premium paid by Wesley-Rankin. Dental & vision plans available at low cost. 10 PTO days at employee’s discretion; Additional 10 PTO days at the end of the year (office closes for 2 weeks), 10 paid holidays. To apply, please complete the application on our website. #J-18808-Ljbffr Wesleyrankin