Job Description
Job DetailsJob Location: Main Campus - CEDAR RAPIDS, IA 52404Position Type: Full-Time/Part-TimeEducation Level: High SchoolSalary Range: $17.00 - $18.00 HourlyJob Shift: AnyMake a Difference Every Day — Become a Youth Service Worker- Summit House at Tanager
Are you looking for a role where you can truly change lives? Imagine being the reason a child smiles again, builds self-confidence, or discovers a new dream. As a Youth Service Worker at Tanager, you won’t just have a job — you’ll have a purpose. Every interaction you have can shape a child’s future, helping them feel seen, supported, and safe. If you believe in the power of human connection, healing, and growth, this is your chance to help a child discover their potential.
About Tanager
Since 1879, we’ve been dedicated to supporting children and families in Linn County and as the first children's human services agency in the county, our mission continues to evolve with the needs of our community. Today, we serve over 4,000 children and teens annually through prevention, treatment, and outreach programs.
We’re more than a non-profit — we’re a community of caregivers working together to Inspire, Empower, and Heal.
Position Overview: Youth Service Worker- Summit House
As a Youth Service Worker, you’ll be part of our Residential Services Team, delivering direct care services that are:
Client-centered
Strengths-based
Professional and compassionate
Your role ensures the safety, supervision, and wellbeing of youth in our care. You’ll also plan and lead activities — fun, healing experiences that promote growth, trust, and resilience. Most importantly, you’ll build therapeutic relationships rooted in respect, empathy, and consistency. We offer a $3.00 an hour shift rate differential for hours worked between 10:00pm on Friday - 10:00pm on Sunday. Multiple shifts are available.
Why Choose Tanager?
We care for the people who care for our kids. Full-time employees enjoy:
Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and pet insurance
Financial Security: Retirement plan, employer-paid life, short & long-term disability
Wellbeing Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Work-Life Balance: 10 paid holidays, Compassionate Leave, generous PTO policy
Growth Support: Tuition reimbursement and opportunities for advancement
Convenient Pay: Weekly payroll
And most of all — the chance to inspire hope and make a lasting impact.
Qualifications
Must be 18 years' old
Education and Experience:
A bachelor's degree with 30 semester hours or equivalent in a human services field (including, but not limited to, psychology, social work, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, nursing or education) and at least one year of experience in behavioral or mental health services; or
A family support peer specialist (current certification) with a minimum of one year of experience in behavioral or mental health services; or
a bachelor's degree in a non-human services-related field, associate's degree, or high school diploma (or equivalency) with a minimum of two years experience in behavioral or mental health services
Required Special Qualifications:
If approved for driving on behalf of the agency-must be able to meet agency's driver eligibility in order to safely transport youth to/from program and community activities as directed by the agency
Certified in MANDT, CPR, and First Aid
Must have or be able to complete 30 to 60 hours of Crisis and Mental Health in-service training within assigned timeframe
Must be able to work a flexible schedule to include scheduled nights, weekends, and holidays on a part time of full time basis
Ready to Inspire Hope?
If you’re passionate about helping youth find their strength, voice, and purpose — Tanager is the place for you. Join a team where your work truly matters and where every day brings a new chance to make a positive impact.
Apply today and start changing lives — including your own.
Tanager is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
