Join YSS as our Statewide Substance Use Prevention Manager and play a vital role in creating safer, healthier, and more resilient communities across Iowa. In this leadership position, you will guide the strategic coordination, implementation, and long-term sustainability of YSS’s statewide substance use prevention and early intervention programs.
You will collaborate closely with prevention staff, schools, community coalitions, local agencies, subcontractors, and other stakeholders to design and deliver programs that are inclusive, evidence-based, and trauma-informed. Central to this work is empowering youth to be active partners and leaders—engaging in community agencies, businesses, schools, and government—to help shape solutions that affect their lives and communities.
This role also leads the development and promotion of prevention and youth development initiatives, fostering meaningful connections, supporting youth voice, and creating opportunities for community-wide participation. By combining strategic vision, collaboration, and a deep commitment to equity and well-being, the Manager helps build sustainable programs that prevent substance use, promote resilience, and strengthen the fabric of communities across the state.
-
Oversee statewide prevention and early intervention programs, including planning, implementation, and staff supervision.
-
Manage substance use prevention programs, deliver evidence-based curricula, and support youth engagement and leadership statewide.
-
Coordinate programs to meet grant and funding requirements, including data tracking, reporting, and budget oversight.
-
Lead and participate in community coalitions, build relationships with schools and local agencies, and serve as a consultant/resource.
-
Promote programs through public speaking, media outreach, and statewide marketing efforts.
-
Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and grant-related meetings to support program goals.
This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.
You are a collaborative leader who is passionate about preventing substance use and helping young people thrive. You enjoy building strong partnerships, empowering youth to be part of the solution, and leading programs that create meaningful, lasting change. With a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on leadership, you know how to turn ideas into impact.
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
-
Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture
-
Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment
-
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees
Health & Wellness Benefits
-
Comprehensive health insurance
-
Voluntary dental and vision insurance
-
Life insurance and long-term disability coverage
-
Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance
-
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) / Health Savings Account (HSA) options
-
Flu shots and mental health support resources
-
Paid membership to the Athletic Club of Ames
Time Off & Work-Life Balance
-
Generous paid time off (4 weeks PTO)
-
Paid holidays, including a birthday holiday
-
Volunteer time off
Financial & Retirement Benefits
-
Competitive salary
-
Supplemental compensation award
-
403(b) retirement savings plan
Professional & Career Support
-
Professional liability insurance coverage
-
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:
-
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..
-
Minimum of two years of experience in prevention, youth development, or related work.
-
Motivational Interviewing certification (or willingness to obtain after starting employment).
-
If applicable, certification is required after 24 months of full-time employment..
Preferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:
-
Experience managing community-based programs, including resource allocation, time management, and program coordination.
-
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including youth, families, and community partners.
-
Strong problem-solving skills, using active listening, critical thinking, and sound judgment.
-
Professionalism and the ability to represent YSS with integrity and confidence.
-
Excellent communication and writing skills.
-
Ability to coordinate and work collaboratively with colleagues and community partners.
The IDEAL Candidate
-
Is dependable, self-motivated, and great at taking initiative
-
Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
-
Brings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
-
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.
-
From life-changing programs to a new 50-acre recovery campus, we’re expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at yss.org.
-
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.
-
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...
-
Apply – Submit your application at yss.org/ysscareers
-
Assessment – We review your skills and experience
-
Interview – Phone, video, or in-person conversation
-
References – We’ll connect with 3+ professional references
-
Screening – Background check, driving record check, and license verification if required
-
Offer – If it’s a match, you’ll receive a formal offer through Paycom
