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Youth Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

For the Love of the Arts Inc

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Youth Mentor

Gary, IN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Associate or Bachelor's degree preferred * Experience working with youth ages 11-18 * Experience in mentoring, education, youth development, or behavioral health preferred * Valid driver's license ...

New

City Of Gary

Asst. Youth Services Coordinator

Gary, IN · On-site

$40K/yr

... youth, family, workforce development, mentoring, community engagement, and special event ... Associate degree in Public Administration, Human Services, Education, Business Administration ...

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All JobsYouth Development Associate JobsYouth Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Youth Development Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$55K

$83.4K

How much do youth development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth development associate in Chicago, IL is $55,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $61,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth development associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Youth Development Associate, you need knowledge of youth development principles, experience working with young people, and typically a relevant degree or coursework in education, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with program management software, data tracking tools, and mandated reporter training or certifications is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and the ability to motivate and mentor youth set exceptional candidates apart. These skills are essential for creating supportive environments, fostering positive youth outcomes, and ensuring the safety and well-being of program participants.

What does a youth development associate do?

A Youth Development Associate works with young people to support their personal, social, and educational growth. Their responsibilities typically include planning and leading activities, mentoring youth, fostering a safe and positive environment, and helping youth develop important life skills. They often work in after-school programs, community centers, or nonprofit organizations, collaborating with families and other professionals to support youth development. The goal is to empower young people to reach their full potential and become responsible, engaged members of their communities.

What are some common challenges faced by youth development associates and how are they addressed within the team?

Youth Development Associates often encounter challenges such as engaging diverse groups of youth, managing behavioral issues, and balancing administrative tasks with direct youth interaction. To address these challenges, teams typically hold regular meetings to share strategies, provide mentorship, and facilitate ongoing professional development. Collaboration with colleagues, supervisors, and community partners is encouraged to develop creative solutions and ensure a supportive environment for both staff and youth participants.

What is the difference between Youth Development Associate vs Youth Program Coordinator?

AspectYouth Development AssociateYouth Program Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require associate's degreeBachelor's degree in education, social work, or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, non-profit organizationsProgram planning settings, community organizations, non-profits
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in youth-focused non-profits, community programsOften in organizations managing multiple youth programs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level youth rolesLooking for roles with more program management responsibilities

The Youth Development Associate typically focuses on direct youth engagement and support, often with minimal supervisory duties. In contrast, the Youth Program Coordinator usually oversees program planning, implementation, and coordination, requiring more experience and organizational skills. Both roles are vital in youth services but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Youth Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Youth Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Youth Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Youth Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Youth Development Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Youth Development Associate job openings:
Youth Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Development Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,028 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Child and Youth Program Assistant - May be eligible for 1000.00 Incentive at 6 mo. and 1 year

CNIC Careers

Great Lakes, IL

$21.02/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

CYP Assistants work directly with children and youth, keeping them actively engaged, well-cared for, and safe while participating in the CYP. The CYP Assistant's day includes helping children develop social skills such as making friends and conflict resolution; make healthy choices whether it be choosing nutritional snacks or appropriate recreational activities; build self-help and school readiness skills; and explore the environment around them.
Qualifications:

Resumes must include information which demonstrates experience and knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) as they relate to this position. Applicants are encouraged to be clear and specific when describing their experience level and KSAs.

A qualified candidate possesses the following:

Entry Level (CY-1702-01)

  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.

  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

  • Ability to complete all Department of the Navy (DoN) training requirements within the specified timeframe.

  • Ability to promote and foster effective working relationships with children, youth, and coworkers.

  • Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team.

Intermediate Level (CY-1702-01)

Entry Level abilities plus:

  • Knowledge of basic child and youth development principles to meet the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development needs of children and youth.

  • Ability to implement developmentally appropriate principles and practices to provide high-quality direct care and education and development.

  • Ability to interpret a curriculum or activity plan.

  • Ability to follow written instructions.

  • Ability to plan and organize, and work cooperatively as a member of a team.

  • Ability to promote and foster effective working relationships with children, youth, and coworkers.

  • Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team.

  • Six (6) months of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting.

Target Level (CY-1702-02)

Entry and Intermediate Levels' knowledge and abilities plus:

  • Knowledge of child and youth development principles in order to appropriately inform the efficient and effective program response to meet the needs of children and youth.

  • Skill to implement developmentally appropriate child and youth development principles, practices, and services in order to provide high-quality direct care and education for children and youth, either individually or within groups.

  • Skill to promote and foster effective working relationships with children, youth, and coworkers.

  • Skill to work cooperatively as a member of a team.

  • Skill in verbal communication in order to provide basic program information and explain CYP processes and procedures.

  • One (1) year of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting.

Education:

**Must provide a copy of your H.S. Diploma, GED, or College Transcripts (showing degree awarded/conferred) when you apply.**

Entry Level (CY-1702-01)

A successful candidate must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Note: Prior experience working with children and/or youth is preferred.

Intermediate Level (CY-1702-01)

A successful candidate must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent, have six (6) months of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting AND have the following:

Completion of Navy Entry Level training requirement (Army, Air Force, and Marine equivalent accepted).

Target Level (CY-1702-02)

A successful candidate must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent, possess one (1) year of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting AND have one of the following:

Completion of the DoD standardized training courses;

OR

A valid Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Military School-Age (MSA) credential;

OR

A minimum of a 2-year degree in degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, Youth Recreation, Physical Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Youth Development, or other field related to Pre-K or Primary Education.

Note: If your degree has not been awarded and/or you possess certificates of completion for DoD approved competency-based training courses, and/or a valid CDA/MSA credential(s), you MUST also provide a copy of your HS Diploma or equivalent.

Employment Type: OTHER

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