Youth Development Specialist

About the School

Located in Hershey, PA, the Milton Hershey School (MHS) is a premier home and school providing an extraordinary, cost-free, career-focused education to over 2,200 pre-K through 12th-grade students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Established in 1909 by Milton and Catherine Hershey, the school is fully endowed, ensuring that its mission of providing a life-changing education continues to thrive. With over 12,000 graduates, MHS remains dedicated to expanding its reach to serve more students in need.

About the Role

MHS is seeking married couples to serve as Full-time Flex Houseparents in a unique, life-changing career. In this role, couples reside in on-campus student homes to provide care, guidance, supervision, and support for a group of approximately 8–13 students. Flex Houseparents are vital to creating a structured, family-like environment that fosters the academic, emotional, and social development of students, helping them reach their full potential.

The position begins with a flexible schedule where houseparents support various student homes, working nine consecutive days on duty followed by three days off. During weekdays, houseparents have unscheduled time while students are in school. Over time, successful Flex Houseparents transition into a Placed Houseparent role, living and working permanently with the same group of students in their own student home. This career requires a high level of commitment to student success from both spouses.

Hiring Process

This is a two-person role requiring both spouses to complete individual employment applications. To learn more about the position and to apply, please visit www.mhskids.org.

Our Culture

MHS staff serve as role models for students, demonstrating integrity and professionalism. The campus is committed to being smoke-free and weapon-free, with no alcohol permitted while on duty. The environment supports a Judeo-Christian foundation, with houseparents leading daily devotions and accompanying students to Sunday Chapel services (proselytizing is prohibited). The school values a family-oriented atmosphere where staff and students grow together.