Summer Seasonal Youth Service Worker

Make a Difference Every Day — Become a Youth Service Worker 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

As a Youth Service Worker, you’ll be part of our Inpatient 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. This is considered a seasonal position from mid-May - August, with potential to become a part time or full time position.

Why Choose Tanager?

We care for the people who care for our kids. Seasonal employees enjoy:

• Financial Security: Retirement Plan
• Wellbeing Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Convenient Pay: Weekly payroll
• And most of all — the chance to inspire hope and make a lasting impact.

Walk in Interviews available on the following dates/times in April,

Tuesdays between 8:00am - 11:00am

Thursday between 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Fridays between 10th 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Walk in interviews are located at,

Tanager Main Office

2309 C St SW

Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

• Must be 20 years' old
• One year of previous direct experience working with children, youth, or families in a professional setting OR meet the following education requirements -
  • Associate’s degree (AA) in psychology, counseling, social work, nursing, criminal justice, or a related human services field. Completion of two years of college courses toward a BA in the related field will qualify)

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.