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Youth Development Associate Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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Youth Development Associate information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$28.8K

$53K

$80.4K

How much do youth development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth development associate in Phoenix, AZ is $53,039.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,200.00 and $59,600.00 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 Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Youth Development jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Youth Development Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Youth Development Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Youth Development Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Development Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Youth Development Associate jobs? Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Youth Development Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Youth Development Associate job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,039 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Program Specialist Behavior Coach - Valley of the Sun YMCA

YMCA

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,987 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

570th of 771 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

he Valley of the Sun YMCA is honored to be among the top 50 YMCA associations in the United States, recognized for transforming our culture, vision, and operations. With 12 branches across the Valley and Northern Arizona, along with a thriving overnight camp in Prescott, we are a rapidly growing, cause-driven organization. Our mission is to enhance the nation's health and well-being while creating opportunities to give back and support our communities. If you are dedicated to being part of a greater movement, a career with the YMCA is for you.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A PROGRAM SPECIALIST BEHAVIOR COACH:

  • Serves as an embedded behavior and social-emotional learning resource for YMCA school-age programs.
  • Observes program participants and environments to provide coaching, modeling, and feedback to staff on positive behavior support strategies and effective youth engagement practices.
  • Documents observations, coaching sessions, referrals, and intervention strategies in accordance with YMCA procedures.
  • Helps frontline staff implement proactive behavior management techniques that promote emotional regulation, positive peer interactions, and inclusive group environments.
  • Assists program leaders in implementing Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and behavior interventions developed for youth who require additional support
  • Empowers staff through coaching, modeling, and training in de-escalation practices, conflict resolution, restorative conversations, and trauma-informed approaches.
  • Supports implementation of sensory tools, emotional regulation resources, and other intervention strategies funded through the grant.

*This is not an exhaustive list of job duties. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned.

REQUIREMENTS TO BE A PROGRAM SPECIALIST BEHAVIOR COACH:

  • Minimum 21 years of age required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Education, Child Development, Psychology, Social Work, Behavioral Health, Counseling, Youth Development, Human Services, or related field; OR Associate's degree with significant relevant experience working in youth behavior support, education, counseling, social-emotional learning, or youth development.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience working with school-age youth in educational, youth development, behavioral health, childcare, afterschool, recreation, or community-based settings.
  • Experience supporting youth with behavioral, emotional, social, or trauma-related challenges.
  • Experience coaching, mentoring, training, or supporting frontline staff.
  • Experience creating behavior support plans or Individual Support Plans.
  • Arizona Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card.
  • Current or ability to obtain CPR, First Aid, Fingerprint Clearance Card, and TB test.
  • Valid Arizona driver's license, reliable transportation and ability to travel between YMCA locations.

FULL TIME BENEFITS:

  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Free YMCA Family Membership
  • Employee Program Rewards and Discounts
  • Paid Vacation & Sick Leave (Once Accrued)
  • 403b Retirement Savings Account Upon Hire
  • Professional Development Opportunities & Trainings
  • 12% Employer Funded Retirement Plan (Once Eligible)
  • Health Benefits Including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability Insurance

OUR YMCA CULTURE:

The Valley of the Sun YMCA has been a trusted place of belonging, growth, and opportunity. We are for strengthening families, and creating opportunities for every child, teen, adult and senior to thrive. Guided by our call to Be Well. Do Good. Lead Change. Our goal is to expand access, deepen impact and secure a sustainable future for the Y across Arizona.

Valley of the Sun YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for this opening. Unless explicitly authorized by law, selection will be made without regard to, and there will be no discrimination because of, color, race, religion, national origin, marital status, parental status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age (40 or over), sex (including pregnancy and related conditions, gender identity, and sexual orientation), or on the basis of personal favoritism, or any other non-merit factors.

Our YMCA promotes a safe environment that is free from abuse. No form of abuse will be tolerated. All allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to in accordance with our Abuse Response Process.

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.


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