The University of Montana invites applications for a Youth Protection Specialistfor theOffice of Educational Initiatives and Innovation. The Youth Protection Specialist supports the University of Montana’s protection of minors’ initiative by coordinating compliance activities for university-sponsored youth programs and camps. This role serves as the operational resource and point of contact for a campus-wide portfolio of youth programs across academic, athletic, and outreach units by providing guidance on youth protection requirements, procedures, and best practices. The Specialist is responsible for administering day-to-day program functions, monitoring compliance, maintaining records, and assisting with training, reporting, and communications related to youth protection. The role emphasizes coordination, customer service, document management, and the consistent application of university policies and regulatory requirements.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for campus youth programs (programs involving learners under the age of 18), offering guidance on youth protection practices and compliance requirements.
- Partner with program leaders to support registration, training completion, and required documentation.
- Help ensure a safe and positive environment for youth by promoting best practices and clear compliance standards.
- Conduct compliance intakes and provide consultation related to policy adherence and youth protection best practices.
- Maintain organized records and data related to training, background checks, and program participation.
- Build relationships across campus through regular communication, collaboration, and program support.
- Participate in site visits and ongoing monitoring to support program success and compliance.
- Assist with reporting, audits, and continuous improvement of youth protection policies and procedures.
- Contribute to training, workshops, and resources that strengthen awareness and foster a culture of safety and accountability.
- Bachelor’s degree and two (2) years of experience in education, public administration, social sciences, compliance, or a related field.
- Experience providing program coordination, compliance support, or administrative oversight in a higher education, nonprofit, or public-sector environment.
- Knowledge of or ability to learn youth protection principles, mandatory reporting obligations, and compliance documentation practices.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and a demonstrated commitment to youth protection.
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends with advance notice.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with youth programs, camps, or outreach activities.
- Familiarity with background check processes, training management systems, or compliance tracking databases.
- Experience interpreting policies and procedures and providing guidance to diverse stakeholders.
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
Screening of applications will begin after the closingdate; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
- Letter of Interest –addressing the stated required skills for the position
- Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
- Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action:Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
