Substance Use Early-Intervention Coordinator (54456)

YSS•Ames, IA

23h

About The Position

Empowering communities. Strengthening youth. Preventing substance use. YSS is looking for a Statewide Substance Use Early Intervention Coordinator — a dedicated, empathetic professional who can build partnerships, inspire youth leadership, and transform evidence-based prevention programs into meaningful impact across communities. In collaboration with the Statewide Prevention Manager, this role supports the promotion, implementation, and ongoing quality of statewide substance use prevention and early intervention programs. Working closely with YSS staff, schools, community agencies, coalitions, subcontractors, and other stakeholders, the Coordinator helps design and deliver programs that are inclusive, evidence-based, and trauma-informed. Central to this work is fostering hope and providing meaningful opportunities for youth and community members to access education, resources, and support services that strengthen resilience and well-being.

Requirements

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. Experience should include public speaking and working with adults and youth in a group setting.
Motivational Interviewing certification (or willingness to obtain after starting employment). If applicable, certification is required after 24 months of full-time employment.

Nice To Haves

Experience in Motivational Interviewing, recording keeping, and group facilitation.
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 manage resources effectively.
Ability to manage one’s own time and the time of others.
Ability to coordinate and work collaboratively with colleagues and community partners.
Be rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
Bring humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
Speaks a language in addition to English (especially one spoken in our communities).
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.

Responsibilities

Lead the coordination, implementation, and evaluation of statewide substance use prevention and early intervention programs.
Supervise and support Prevention Specialists, interns, and volunteers to ensure high-quality program delivery.
Deliver evidence-based substance use curricula and specialized initiatives, including statewide prevention education.
Empower youth as leaders, encouraging public engagement, board participation, and community involvement.
Build strong partnerships with schools, community agencies, coalitions, and stakeholders to expand program reach.
Promote programs through public speaking, media outreach, and statewide engagement.
Manage program data, reporting, and compliance with grant and agency requirements.
Participate in trainings, staff meetings, and other organizational activities.