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Youth Challenge Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valley Youth House

$8.50 - $15.50/hr

Valley Youth House empowers and strengthens the lives of children, youth, and families through ... Referral program where you can earn rewards for bringing talented individuals to our team. * An ...

TSNE

Youth Program Associate

Chicopee, MA

The Youth Program Associate under the direction of the Executive Director and Youth Program Manager ... that challenge youth to learn and grow; * Implementation of a year-round youth learning and ...

TSNE

Youth Program Associate

Chicopee, MA · On-site

Responsibilities The Youth Program Associate under the direction of the Executive Director and ... that challenge youth to learn and grow; * Implementation of a year-round youth learning and ...

Youth Dynamics

Program Manager

Grangeville, ID · On-site

$42K - $60K/yr

Youth Dynamics' vision is to see youth transformed by the power of Christ, integrated into the ... Skill in rafting, rock climbing, challenge course facilitation and how to use these tools in ...

Youth Dynamics

Program Manager

Grangeville, ID

$42K - $60K/yr

Youth Dynamics' vision is to see youth transformed by the power of Christ, integrated into the ... Skill in rafting, rock climbing, challenge course facilitation and how to use these tools in ...

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All JobsYouth Challenge Program Jobs

Youth Challenge Program information

See salary details

$23K

$54.1K

$97.5K

How much do youth challenge program jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 17% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,135 per year, or $26 per hour.
Summer Camp Challenge Course Facilitator

Summer Camp Challenge Course Facilitator

Valley Youth House

$8.50 - $15.50/hr

Temporary

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Valley Youth House rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position: Summer Camp Challenge Course Facilitator (Seasonal) (June - August) $8.50/hr - $15/50/hr)
Location: Camp Fowler, Orefield, PA
The Organization:
Valley Youth House empowers and strengthens the lives of children, youth, and families through inclusive programming that builds resilience and fosters growth and independence. VYH works from a trauma-informed / healing-centered perspective, incorporating positive youth and human development, and cultural awareness into all aspects of its services. The agency is committed to ensuring that clients and staff feel safe, have choice and voice, collaborate in a trusting environment, and are empowered to make a difference in their own lives and the agency.
Why Join Us?
  • Health and wellness programs to support your overall well-being.
  • Referral program where you can earn rewards for bringing talented individuals to our team.
  • An extensive orientation program to ensure a smooth onboarding process.

Essential Functions of the Summer Camp Challenge Course Facilitator:
  • Collaborate with other challenge/adventure staff to plan, frontload, facilitate, and debrief initiatives and activities on the elements.
  • Complete all Challenge Courses and Adventure Learning trainings.
  • Utilize proper procedures, protocols, and techniques while facilitating activities.
  • Ensure the mental, physical, and emotional safety of each participant.
  • Inspect the challenge course elements and equipment for any potential malfunctions and/or damage.
  • Perform necessary opening and closing procedures for the challenge course(s).
  • Understand the emergency action plan and implement the appropriate steps when necessary.
Physical Requirements for the Summer Camp Challenge Course Facilitator:
  • Capacity to work long hours in various weather conditions, including heat, humidity, and rain, while maintaining energy and enthusiasm. X Constant
  • Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing. X Occasionally
  • Walking, hiking, and movement across the camp's 43-acre property, which includes uneven terrain, wooded areas, and hills, multiple times a day. X Constant
  • Willingness and ability to participate in and demonstrate camp activities, such as hiking, swimming, team-building exercises, and other outdoor activities. X Constant
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25-50 pounds, which may include supplies, equipment, or assisting with setting up activities. X Occasionally
  • Capacity to perform basic first aid and CPR, including kneeling, bending, and other physical movements required in emergency situations. X Constantly
  • Ability to navigate stairs. X Constantly

**If eligible: Medical, vision, and prescription benefits available after the first month of hire, Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time Off, 401k -6% match, Employer-paid clearances, physical, and training, Opportunities for Tuition reimbursement, Opportunities for licensure supervision hours for LCSW and LPC.

For more position details!
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About Valley Youth House:

Valley Youth House is more than a nonprofit organization. We’re a catalyst for youth to achieve their desired futures through genuine relationships that support families, ensure safe places, and build community connections. We partner with each young person we meet to help them create the best possible outcome for their unique situation.