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Positive Youth Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AYS

Youth Development Associate

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

We provide a range of programs and services that promote positive youth development and help young people reach their full potential. Job Summary: AYS Inc is seeking a dedicated and passionate Youth ...

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Hudson- Youth Development Professional

Hudson, MI · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

... positive youth development practices Perform other job-related duties as assigned Disclaimer: The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this ...

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How much do positive youth development jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for positive youth development in the United States is $17.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Positive Youth Development role, and why are they important?

To thrive in Positive Youth Development, you generally need a background in youth work, education, social work, or psychology, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with youth development frameworks, program evaluation tools, and case management systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and the ability to motivate and mentor young people are crucial for effectiveness. These skills are essential for creating supportive environments that foster youth empowerment, resilience, and positive outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Positive Youth Development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Positive Youth Development often encounter challenges such as engaging youth who may have experienced trauma, building trust with diverse communities, and balancing administrative tasks with direct youth interaction. To address these challenges, it is important to employ trauma-informed approaches, foster open communication, and collaborate closely with families, schools, and community partners. Ongoing professional development and team support can also help staff stay resilient and effective in their roles.

What is Positive Youth Development?

Positive Youth Development (PYD) is an approach that focuses on building the strengths, skills, and assets of young people rather than just addressing their problems or risks. PYD emphasizes supportive relationships, opportunities for youth to participate and lead, and environments that foster healthy development. Programs using this approach aim to empower youth to reach their full potential by promoting competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring.

What are the 5 C's of positive youth development?

The 5 C's of positive youth development are Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, and Caring. These core qualities are used by youth development professionals to foster healthy growth and resilience in young people through supportive environments and skill-building activities.
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Positive Youth Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Positive Youth Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,508 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Career & Youth Development Specialist

Career & Youth Development Specialist

Jewish Child Care Association

Pleasantville, NY • On-site

$31.32/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

JCCA is seeking a passionate, driven, and youth-centered Career & Youth Development Specialist to empower young people in foster care as they prepare for adulthood. This role is rooted in a Positive Youth Development approach and focuses on equipping youth with the independent living, career readiness, and self-advocacy skills they need to thrive.
The Career & Youth Development Specialist partners directly with youth (ages 14+) to:
  • Assess strengths, interests, and needs
  • Develop individualized Preparing Youth for Adulthood (PYA) goals
  • Provide one-on-one coaching and group workshops
  • Create employment, internship, and vocational opportunities
  • Ensure compliance with PYA mandates and quality standards

You will collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, external employers, workforce programs, and community partners to build meaningful pipelines to success.
Youth Development & Independent Living
  • Facilitate PYA workshops (financial literacy, job readiness, advocacy, independent living skills)
  • Conduct Ansell Casey assessments and NYTD surveys
  • Coordinate independent living groups and experiential learning excursions
  • Support youth with obtaining vital documents, bank accounts, credit checks, and DMV documentation
  • Assist with discharge planning and transitional supports, including Medicaid documentation
Career & Workforce Development
  • Conduct career assessments and vocational planning
  • Support resume development, mock interviews, and job applications
  • Develop on- and off-campus employment and internship pipelines
  • Oversee job readiness and internship programs (e.g., YA WORC, Mentored Internship Programs)
  • Build relationships with employers and workforce programs
  • Support non-college-bound youth in exploring alternative career pathways
  • Track employment persistence at 3, 6, and 12 months
Collaboration & Leadership
  • Attend Family Team Conferences (FTCs), permanency planning meetings, and vocational reviews
  • Train agency staff on Youth Development and Independent Living curriculum
  • Partner with LGBTQ+ organizations and other external stakeholders
  • Ensure accurate and timely documentation in CONX, Evolve, and Fair Futures platforms
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Minimum 2 years' experience working with disadvantaged youth
  • Experience in youth development, workforce development, or foster care strongly preferred
Skills & Competencies
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience motivating and mentoring young people
  • Ability to work independently and take initiative
  • Excellent organizational and time-management skills
  • Trauma-informed and youth-centered practice mindset
  • Strong collaboration and relationship-building abilities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Hours: Monday - Thursday 10AM -6PM; Fridays - 9AM-5PM
Ready to Empower the Next Generation?
If you are passionate about creating opportunities, building futures, and walking alongside young people as they define their goals - apply today.
Salary: $31.32 per hour ($57K annually) - differential offered for Spanish language skills

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