Couples Youth Development Specialists

Description:

Milton Hershey School (MHS) is an exceptional home and educational institution providing over 2,200 students from disadvantaged backgrounds with a remarkable, cost-free, career-focused education. Established in 1909 by Milton and Catherine Hershey, the school continues to thrive and expand, thanks to their generous endowment. MHS has proudly graduated over 12,000 students, with a mission to empower even more young lives.

We are seeking committed couples to serve as Full-time Flex Houseparents. In this rewarding career, couples will live in on-campus student homes and offer care, guidance, supervision, and support to a group of approximately 813 students residing in the home. Flex Houseparents play a crucial role in cultivating a structured, family-like environment that enhances students’ academic, emotional, and social development, helping them to realize their full potential.

Key Responsibilities:
• Provide daily supervision and mentorship for students.
• Manage household routines and student schedules effectively.
• Administer medications and ensure overall student wellness.
• Transport students to activities and engage in developmental and recreational activities.
• Lead daily devotions and accompany students to Sunday Chapel.
• Oversee budgeting and household reporting.

Initially, Flex Houseparents will support different student homes, following a schedule of nine consecutive days on duty with three days off. During weekdays, houseparents will have unscheduled time while students attend school. Over time, Flex Houseparents will transition into a Placed Houseparent role, where they will live and work with the same group of students in their dedicated student home.

Benefits Include:
• Competitive salary: $44,768.00 per person, combining to approximately $168,000 total compensation per couple, alongside free housing, meals while on duty, utilities, and more.
• Comprehensive benefits package: medical, dental, and vision insurance; health savings and flexible spending accounts; life insurance; disability options; and retirement savings.
• Relocation assistance and paid training provided to support your transition.
• Paid time off at designated times during the year.

Qualifications:
• Experience working or volunteering with youth.
• A two-person role for legally married couples with a minimum of two years of marriage.
• Both spouses must be at least 27 years old.
• No more than three dependent children may reside in the student home.
• Commitment to a smoke-free and weapon-free campus; alcohol is prohibited while on duty.
• Pet policy allows only approved breeds of dogs and fish.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license and ability to complete training to drive student home vans.
• Comfort in leading students in daily devotions and attending Judeo-Christian Sunday Chapel services (proselytizing is not permitted).
• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Demonstrated integrity and professionalism; MHS staff serve as role models for students.

This is a unique, challenging, and fulfilling career opportunity that requires a deep commitment to student success from both spouses. For consideration, both partners must submit individual employment applications.