Youth Worker

We are seeking a proactive, autonomous Special Youth Worker for Kouvola Youth Services in a permanent position starting from 1 September 2026. Special youth work provides confidential support to youths aged 12–18 and their families, assisting with friendships, school, substances, loneliness, and other everyday challenges. The core focus is preventive work; we meet the youth where it is most natural and search for solutions together using youth-work methods. The aim is to strengthen the youth’s well-being, resources and belief in the future. The duties include individual guidance, small-group facilitation, substance-use education, nicotine-product intervention model guidance, mobile youth work, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Evening work is required. Qualifications: a degree in community pedagogy, social services, another suitable higher education degree, or a basic degree in education and guidance. The basic degree in education and guidance requires at least two years’ experience in one-on-one work with youths. We require previous experience with youth work, good communication skills and initiative. Possession of a personal car is also required. Salary and terms are governed by KVTES. Before starting, a criminal background check as per Laki 504/2002 is required. A six-month probation applies. Interviews will be conducted on 27 August 2026. We offer competitive terms and good staff benefits (including Epassi) and a meaningful working environment. Staff wellbeing and competence development are planned. Kouvola City employs about 2,700 people to serve residents. Our staff vision: Love of the sport – we make Kouvola better! For more information about the employer: Kouvola Youth Services operates as a local service across the Kouvola region. The youth receive leisure, school-based youth work, special youth work, and outreach youth services locally. We want to build a trustworthy and safe growth environment for youth at different life stages. The youth are well when life is in order, and there is a sense of direction and opportunity to influence. www.nuortenkouvola.fi and Kouvolan kaupungin Näkösesi paikka. This is a new application process. Applications from those who have applied before will be considered.