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Youth Challenge Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Washington

WYCA Counselor

Olympia, WA · On-site

$71K - $82K/yr

About the Challenge Program The WYCA was established under the authority and guidelines of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program. This is a voluntary program which includes a 22-week residential ...

State of Washington

WYCA Counselor

Olympia, WA · On-site

$71K - $82K/yr

About the Challenge Program The WYCA was established under the authority and guidelines of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program. This is a voluntary program which includes a 22-week residential ...

State of Oklahoma

Team Leader

Pryor, OK · On-site

$40K/yr

Monitor and supervise 35 to 45 youth (ages 16 to 18) in the Oklahoma Youth ChalleNGe Program (Thunderbird Challenge Program). Essential Functions: * Under administrative supervision monitors and ...

State of Oklahoma

Temporary Team Leader

Pryor, OK · On-site

Under administrative supervision monitors and supervises 35 to 45 youth (ages 16 to 18) in the Oklahoma Youth ChalleNGe Program (Thunderbird Challenge Program) * Maintains accountability of assigned ...

State of Oklahoma

Team Leader

Pryor, OK · On-site

$40K/yr

Monitor and supervise 35 to 45 youth (ages 16 to 18) in the Oklahoma Youth ChalleNGe Program (Thunderbird Challenge Program). Essential Functions: * Under administrative supervision monitors and ...

State of Oklahoma

Temporary Team Leader

Pryor, OK · On-site

$17.78/hr

Under administrative supervision monitors and supervises 35 to 45 youth (ages 16 to 18) in the Oklahoma Youth ChalleNGe Program (Thunderbird Challenge Program) * Maintains accountability of assigned ...

State of Oklahoma

Team Leader

Pryor, OK · On-site

$40K/yr

Under administrative supervision monitors and supervises 35 to 45 youth (ages 16 to 18) in the Oklahoma Youth ChalleNGe Program (Thunderbird Challenge Program) * Maintains accountability of assigned ...

State of Oklahoma

Team Leader

Pryor, OK · On-site

$40K/yr

Monitor and supervise 35 to 45 youth (ages 16 to 18) in the Oklahoma Youth ChalleNGe Program (Thunderbird Challenge Program). Salary: $40,000 Typical Functions * Under administrative supervision ...

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Youth Challenge Program information

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$23K

$54.1K

$97.5K

How much do youth challenge program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth challenge program in the United States is $54,135.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the Youth Challenge Program?

The Youth Challenge Program (YCP) is a voluntary, residential program for at-risk youth, typically ages 16 to 18, that aims to help them earn a high school diploma or equivalent while developing life skills, discipline, and employment potential. Sponsored by the National Guard, the program offers a structured environment, academic instruction, physical training, and mentoring over a 17- to 22-week residential phase, followed by a year-long post-residential mentoring phase. YCP focuses on helping participants improve their academic standing, learn leadership and teamwork, and prepare for future success in education, employment, or military service.

What are some common challenges faced by staff in the Youth Challenge Program, and how can they be addressed?

Staff in the Youth Challenge Program often work with at-risk youth who may have experienced trauma, academic struggles, or behavioral issues. One of the main challenges is building trust and rapport with participants while maintaining appropriate boundaries and authority. Effective communication, ongoing training in trauma-informed care, and strong teamwork are key strategies for overcoming these challenges. Additionally, staff benefit from regular debriefings and support from supervisors to manage stress and ensure a positive environment for both youth and staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Youth Challenge Program instructor, and why are they important?

To excel as a Youth Challenge Program Instructor, you typically need experience in education, counseling, or military service, along with a high school diploma or higher education and relevant certifications. Familiarity with behavior management systems, educational software, and safety protocols is often required. Strong leadership, patience, and effective communication are essential soft skills for mentoring and motivating at-risk youth. These skills are crucial for creating a structured, supportive environment that fosters personal growth and positive outcomes for participants.

What is the difference between Youth Challenge Program vs Youth Counselor?

AspectYouth Challenge ProgramYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some programs may require background checksHigh school diploma or higher; often requires counseling or social work certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, community centers, or program facilitiesSchools, community centers, or counseling offices
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, non-profits, military or youth development programsEducational institutions, social service agencies, non-profits

The Youth Challenge Program primarily focuses on youth development through structured outdoor and community activities, often with a military or discipline-based approach. Youth Counselors, on the other hand, provide guidance, support, and counseling to youth in educational or social service settings. While both roles serve young people, the Youth Challenge Program emphasizes program participation and discipline, whereas Youth Counselors focus on individual support and counseling.

More about Youth Challenge Program jobs

What cities are hiring for Youth Challenge Program jobs?

Cities with the most Youth Challenge Program job openings:

What states have the most Youth Challenge Program jobs?

States with the most job openings for Youth Challenge Program jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Youth Challenge Program jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Youth Challenge Program jobs are:

Youth Challenge Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Challenge Program job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,135 per year, or $26 per hour.

Youth Challenge Cadre I -Department of Military Affairs (Non-Merit)

Commonwealth of Kentucky

Fort Knox, KY • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Advertisement Closes
9/6/2026 (11:59 PM ET)
2604100
Youth Challenge Cadre I -Department of Military Affairs (Non-Merit)
Pay Grade12
Salary
$42,945.76 Annually
Employment Type
EXECUTIVE BRANCH FULL TIME ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY NON-CHAPTER 40.0 HR/WK
Click here for more details on state employment.
Hiring Agency
General Government Cabinet Department of Military Affairs
Location
114 Conroy Avenue Building 5549
Fort Knox, KY 40121 USA
Description
The Bluegrass Challenge Academy is hiring six (6) Youth Challenge Cadre I positions that, at entry level,supervises and coordinates activities of cadets in the KY National Guard Youth Challenge Program.
Job duties include but are not limited to the following:
  • Observes and oversees the daily activities of youth in areas such as study time, meals, work details,physical trainings, etc.
  • Teaches physical and leadership and followership components of the program.
  • Mediates conflict as prescribed by policies and procedures.
  • Provides guidance and informal counseling to youth.
  • Ensures that counselors and shift supervisors are made aware of behavioral problems identified.
  • Conducts security checks and ensures safety and security of youth.
  • Identifies behavioral problems, maintains a log of observations and completes incident reports.
  • Performs inspections and demonstrates proper use of tools and equipment.
  • Supervises housekeeping functions.

Minimum Requirements
EDUCATION:High school graduate
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS:NONE
Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE:NONE
Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION:NONE
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.):Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license prior to appointment in this classification. Must successfully complete the National Youth ChalleNGe Program Basic and Cadre courses and all other training required within the prescribed time-frame or at least within six months of appointment. Must maintain any required licensure(s), certificate(s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this classification. Employing agency is responsible for ensuring employee possesses and maintains required licensure(s), certificate(s), or other credentials.
Working Conditions
Typically works in a residential or school based setting. At times may be required to work at off-site locations to facilitate various requirements. May be exposed to hazards and dangers associated with operating a motor vehicle while providing transportation services.
If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Crystal Simpson at crystal.l.simpson10.nfg@army.mil or 502-607-1541.
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D

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