Youth Diversion Program Specialist

Position Description

The Youth Diversion Specialist plays a hands-on, relationship-centered role working directly with youth ages 10–19 who have been referred to Foundation of HOPE’s diversion programming. Most of this role is direct service — facilitating group sessions and individual one-on-one meetings with participants across a variety of community-based settings, including schools, after-school programs, and summer programs throughout Allegheny County.

Work environments and scheduling will vary by season and program cycle. This position requires flexibility, strong organizational skills, and a genuine passion for supporting young people on a positive path forward.

Reports to: Youth Diversion Program Coordinator

Status: Full-time/Exempt Office

Location: 901 Pennsylvania Ave, Suite 3A, Pittsburgh PA 15233

Benefits: Competitive Salary, paid vacation, generous PTO schedule, 401k retirement plan, various training/certificate/professional development opportunities

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Direct Service & Program Facilitation

• Facilitate group sessions and individual one-on-ones with youth participants ages 10–19 as the primary function of this role
• Deliver Foundation of HOPE’s established curriculum with fidelity, creativity, and cultural responsiveness
• Ensure every participant receives scheduled individual attention and that no youth falls through the cracks
• Complete intake/assessment and follow-up contact with newly referred participants within 24 hours of referral
• Meet with participants weekly to monitor progress and compliance with their Diversion agreement
• Provide screenings, assessments, program orientation, and referrals, as needed

Case Management & Documentation

• Maintain thorough and timely case notes for all client interactions — every contact must be documented
• Develop goal-oriented, time-limited-service plans that address each participant’s identified needs
• Identify and address the full range of participant needs, including medical, psychosocial, vocational, familial, and daily living domains, and provide referrals and resources, as needed.
• Track and manage referrals to community agencies in participant files and program database (Salesforce)
• Maintain organized, accurate participant files and data for reporting purposes
• Prepare and submit accurate weekly reports on time
• Demonstrate knowledge of agency policies and quality assurance standards

Collaboration & Community Outreach

• Secure, coordinate, and monitor services for participants through provider agencies and community resources
• Collaborate with law enforcement, probation officers, the District Attorney’s office, and community service providers
• Attend required weekly and monthly meetings and participate in community initiatives
• Actively represent Foundation of HOPE at outreach events focused on youth services and partnership development
• Assist in developing and presenting educational prevention programs

Professionalism & Compliance

• Uphold Foundation of HOPE’s mission, values, and personnel policies at all times
• Maintain professionalism in all communication, attire, and interactions with youth, families, and partners
• Sign and adhere to a confidentiality agreement covering all client, staff, and agency information

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Passion for working with youth and a genuine commitment to their growth and well-being
• Ability to facilitate engaging group sessions and build meaningful one-on-one relationships with young people
• Strong written and verbal communication skills across multiple audiences
• Skilled in assessments, goal setting, and tracking measurable outcomes
• Knowledge of the nonprofit and human services landscape and referral networks
• Highly organized with the ability to manage a caseload, stay current on documentation, and meet deadlines
• Administratively strong — able to complete all required paperwork and reports accurately and on time
• Culturally competent and able to connect with youth from diverse backgrounds
• Adaptable to changing schedules and environments across program sites

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, education, or a related field preferred
• At least two years of experience in case management or direct service with high-risk youth populations
• Must be culturally competent and knowledgeable of the nonprofit and human services landscape
• Must be able to obtain all required clearances (PA Child Abuse, Criminal Background, FBI)
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License and vehicle insurance required

Schedule & Work Environment

• Full-time, in-person position based in Pittsburgh, PA
• Work settings vary and may include school-based sites, after-school programs, and summer programs throughout Allegheny County
• Schedule may shift seasonally based on program needs—flexibility is required
• Occasional evenings or weekends may be needed (not common)
• Local travel across Allegheny County required; mileage reimbursement may be available