Youth Development Specialist

Gain unmatched real-word experience in the fields of mental health, experiential programming, and nature-based programming!

About Us:

At Northwest Passage, we focus on mental health and wellness through the adoption of our PassageWay Elements: Nature, Recreation, Relaxation, Nutrition, Exercise, Relationships, Service, and Spirit. These elements are central to our approach, combining traditional mental health treatment with arts, education, nature-based therapy, and experiential opportunities. Since 1978, we've been dedicated to providing high-quality care in a community dedicated in hope, recovery, and wellness. Our facilities in Northwest Wisconsin offer a peaceful environment for our clients and staff, with easy access to activities and resources near Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Eau Claire.
 
Northwest Passage proudly serves individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and we are committed to providing an environment where all feel welcomed and supported. Northwest Passage looks to build our team with candidates who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to all of our clients, demonstrating resilience, determination, collaboration, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. At Northwest Passage, you will foster hope through your involvement in the healing process. Guided by the PassageWay Elements, we strive to create a positive environment for growth and wellness for both our clients and staff.
 

Position Description:

The Youth Development Specialist is responsible for providing services to children and adolescents as determined with the interdisciplinary treatment team. The position provides quality youth care and close intensive supervision of clients in a residential treatment setting. This includes a range of residential services, tracking and reporting on residents' treatment progress, and serving as a positive role model for behavior. The Youth Development Specialist position represents one of the central relationships for clients in the constellation of therapeutic activities and life at Northwest Passage. Shift hours vary depending on scheduling needs and your availability. This is an in-person opportunity, remote options are not available.

Responsibilities Include (under supervision and with mentorship of assigned internship supervisor):

• Create and maintain a structured and safe living environment for youth as they participate in assessment/treatment.
• Develop, coordinate, and execute programming initiatives with adolescents ages 12-17
• Provide a nurturing environment with close, intensive supervision for high-risk youth in accordance with least restrictive treatment measures.
• Assure residents’ basic needs are met including meals, exercise, hygiene, and sleep.
• Assure residents’ emotional needs are met in accordance with the individual treatment or assessment plan.
• Recognize and adjust communication to meet residents’ needs. Provide feedback that is clear, specific, timely, and respectful.
• Work with residents to provide solutions for problematic behaviors.
• Document program activities, residents’ behaviors and program participation, and significant incidents involving residents.
• Attend all staff meetings, trainings, and educational classes as required.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment.
• Understand and follow agency policies.
• Advocate for appropriate goals, wants, and needs of residents.
• Depending on your interests and skills, specific areas of focus may include education, expressive arts, or nature-based programming.

Qualifications & Essential Skills:

• Coursework in social or behavioral sciences
• Ability to connect with youth from diverse backgrounds
• Helpful attitude and friendly demeanor
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and observation skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients, staff, and others
• Interest in gaining meaningful, practical, and professional experience in the mental health field

Internship Dates and Hours per Week: Fall Semester 2026—Northwest Passage is a 24/7 residential treatment facility and is able to offer unique shifts to fit student schedules (days, evenings, weekends). This opportunity is on-site.

Benefits of the Position:

• Unmatched real-world experience in the fields of mental health, experiential programming, and nature-based programming
• Opportunity to work closely with Youth Development Specialists, Teachers, and/or Expressive Arts Instructors
• Opportunity to attend meetings with multidisciplinary treatment team, including case managers, therapists, neuropsychologists, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.
• Internships are paid, and Northwest Passage offers free housing for full-time interns.

*Due to the rural location, there is no public transportation available. Applicants must have a valid driver license and vehicle available for the duration of their internship. 

Values:

In addition to responsibilities and qualifications, ideal candidates will show an understanding of and an ongoing dedication to actively applying Northwest Passage’s values, which are embedded into each role:

• Quality & Adaptability
• Respect & Compassion
• Leadership & Courage
• Connection & Well-being