Older Youth Program Coordinator (Closes 10/12)

Role Overview

The Older Youth Program Coordinator works under the supervision of the Youth Program Manager and is responsible for program execution and continuous quality improvement of the older youth contracts in the DHS Office of Community Services. The Coordinator will apply strong project‑management skills to support large‑scale initiatives, integrate local and national research on youth programming, and develop relationships with providers (e.g., Gwen’s Girls, 412 Youth Zone, Learn and Earn, teen OST providers) and partners (child welfare, juvenile probation, behavioral health, city government). The role may represent DHS at various youth forums and will conduct annual monitoring to ensure quality and compliance with funding regulations. If hired, you will be an employee of the partner agency Community Family Advocates, working onsite at Allegheny County DHS.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversees programs for teens and young adults contracted by the Office of Community Services, including 412 Youth Zone, Caring Connections for Youth Diversion program, Learn and Earn, and Teen Out‑of‑School Time programming.
• Creates clear expectations for programs and articulates how they benefit young adults.
• Provides targeted support for program directors to set program vision, implement strategies, and achieve desired outcomes.
• Monitors program deliverables and outcomes to ensure quality services.
• Ensures program priorities are aligned with broader DHS strategy.
• Works closely with DHS’s contracted partner for the 412 Youth Zone; ensures standards of care and monitors its deliverables and outcomes.
• Identifies opportunities, supports grant writing, and reports on public and private funding streams for older youth initiatives.
• Represents DHS in local, state, and national forums pertaining to youth in transition.
• Supports execution of older youth initiatives, pilots, and strategic investments that may involve multiple programs, specifically:
  • Develops agendas, timelines, and activities to implement programs, policies, and procedures.
  • Identifies strategic partnerships and supports their implementation using logic models, theories of change, and clear communication to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Works with diverse staff and stakeholders to ensure policies are appropriate, equitable, and aligned with the needs and experiences of families and staff.
  • Conducts literature reviews, assessments, and data analysis to inform development of new programs and policies.
  • Monitors, coordinates, and contributes to county, state, and federal reporting requirements.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Self‑directive and able to operate independently to achieve program objectives.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team‑oriented atmosphere.
• Knowledge of youth programming, youth development, education, or a related field.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with high attention to detail.
• Strong analytic and critical‑thinking abilities.
• Flexible, creative, assertive, and capable of handling multiple tasks in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Experience collaborating on projects with both internal and external partners (preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint), Excel, and other relevant computer‑based applications.
• Reliable transportation and ability to navigate throughout the County for work‑related assignments.

Qualifications

• Five years of experience in progressively responsible positions within human/social services, youth programming, or education fields; or an equivalent combination of education and experience that meets the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Why DHS?

DHS is diverse and strives to be even more inclusive, emphasizing equity in hiring, advancement, and unleashing staff creativity at every level. The organization has strong, assertive leaders and does not hire “yes‑people.” Employees can make a big impact, and DHS is recognized as one of the best human services organizations in the country. The agency seeks problem‑solvers, innovators, and terrific leaders to use funding wisely and reach those most in need. “DHS strives to be the kind of place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come to grow and do their best work.”