YSS is seeking a collaborative, energetic, motivated Hidden in Plain Sight Outreach Coordinator to help lead statewide substance use prevention and early intervention efforts. Working closely under the guidance of the Statewide Prevention Manager, you will collaborate with YSS staff, schools, community agencies, coalitions, stakeholders, and subcontractors to develop, implement, and promote programs that educate, empower, and protect youth.
A cornerstone of this work is the Hidden in Plain Sight initiative, a mobile program that immerses adults in a simulated teen environment to spot signs of substance use or risky behavior. By helping adults recognize these warning signs and engage youth in proactive conversations, the Coordinator works to prevent harm, addiction, or other serious consequences.
In this role, you will not only deliver and support evidence-based prevention programming, but also foster youth empowerment, strengthen resilience, and create meaningful opportunities for communities to engage, learn, and act. Your work transforms education into real-world impact—helping families, schools, and communities intervene early, protect young people, and build hope for a healthier future.
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Lead statewide substance use prevention and early intervention programs, ensuring programs meet grant goals and agency standards.
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Supervise and support Prevention Specialists, Facilitators, Volunteers, and Interns in program delivery.
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Plan, deliver, and evaluate evidence-based curricula and specialized initiatives, including Hidden in Plain Sight.
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Empower youth as leaders, supporting public engagement, board participation, and community involvement.
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Build strong partnerships with schools, community agencies, coalitions, and stakeholders to expand program reach.
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Promote programs through public speaking, media outreach, and statewide engagement.
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Manage data collection, reporting, compliance, and program documentation.
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Participate in trainings, staff meetings, and community coalitions; complete other duties as assigned.
This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.
You are a dynamic communicator who is passionate about educating and empowering communities. You understand the value of prevention and enjoy helping adults recognize warning signs, start important conversations, and support youth before challenges become crises. You bring energy, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to making a difference across the state.
We invest in people—because when you thrive, so do the communities we serve. At YSS, you’ll find meaningful work, strong support, and benefits designed for real life.
Supportive Culture & Work Environment
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Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture
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Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees
Health & Wellness Benefits
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Comprehensive health insurance
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Voluntary dental and vision insurance
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Life insurance and long-term disability coverage
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Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance
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Flexible Spending Account (FSA) / Health Savings Account (HSA) options
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Flu shots and mental health support resources
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Paid membership to the Athletic Club of Ames
Time Off & Work-Life Balance
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Generous paid time off (4 weeks PTO)
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Paid holidays, including a birthday holiday
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Volunteer time off
Financial & Retirement Benefits
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Competitive salary
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Supplemental compensation award
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403(b) retirement savings plan
Professional & Career Support
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Professional liability insurance coverage
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Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer
We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a “Can Do” Spirit.
Required Qualifications - MUST HAVES:
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.Bachelor’s degree in education, child development, human services, family environment, sociology, social work, or a related field, or an Associate’s degree with equivalent relevant experience and skills.
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Minimum of one year of experience in prevention, youth development, or related work.
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Experience should include public speaking and working with adults and youth in a group setting.
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Travel is required for this position. For YSS insurance purposes, you must:
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be 21 years of age,
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have a current, valid, state-issued, driver’s license, and
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have a clean driving record. .
Preferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:
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Ability to legally and safely operate a vehicle pulling a trailer preferred.
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Professionalism and the ability to represent YSS with integrity and confidence.
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Excellent communication and writing skills.
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Ability to manage resources effectively.
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Ability to manage one’s own time and the time of others.
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Ability to coordinate and work collaboratively with colleagues and community partners..
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Ability to actively learn and listen.
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Ability to use critical thinking skills to problem-solve.
The IDEAL Candidate
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Is dependable, self-motivated, and great at taking initiative
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Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
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Brings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
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Speaks a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).
We Celebrate Your Story...
Have you navigated recovery from addiction, mental health challenges, trauma, or housing instability? Your lived experience offers a unique, compassionate perspective that can inspire real change. By sharing your story and serving as a role model or mentor, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and families. Your journey matters. If you’re ready to use it to uplift and empower others, we warmly encourage you to apply.
We’re YSS—one of Iowa’s largest and longest-standing nonprofits dedicated to putting kids first. Our mission is simple but powerful: spark hope, create opportunity, and help young people thrive.
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From life-changing programs to a new 50-acre recovery campus, we’re expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at yss.org.
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We value the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we’re committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and succeed.
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YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.
We communicate with applicants via email - straight from our Paycom system address: [email protected]. Please check your inbox regularly (and your spam/junk folder just in case). If the message does end up in spam/junk, make sure to add [email protected] to your list of safe senders. We may also send you texts if you give us that permission when you apply. Questions? Reach us anytime at [email protected]
Our Hiring Process - Here’s What to Expect...
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Apply – Submit your application at yss.org/ysscareers
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Assessment – We review your skills and experience
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Interview – Phone, video, or in-person conversation
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References – We’ll connect with 3+ professional references
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Screening – Background check, driving record check, and license verification if required
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Offer – If it’s a match, you’ll receive a formal offer through Paycom
