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Youth Development Associate Jobs in Springfield, MO

Qualifications Qualifications Passion for footwear, fashion, sport, and youth culture. Comfortable ... O Employee Discount O Flexible Pay Options O Career Development & Advancement Opportunities ...

Qualifications Qualifications Passion for footwear, fashion, sport, and youth culture. Comfortable ... O Employee Discount O Flexible Pay Options O Career Development & Advancement Opportunities ...

Qualifications Qualifications • Passion for footwear, fashion, sport, and youth culture. • ... O Employee Discount O Flexible Pay Options O Career Development & Advancement Opportunities

Qualifications Qualifications • Passion for footwear, fashion, sport, and youth culture. • ... O Employee Discount O Flexible Pay Options O Career Development & Advancement Opportunities

Participate in staff development activities, including training and education programs, to enhance ... An Associate's of Applied Science in Behavioral Health Support will also fulfill educational ...

Participate in staff development activities, including training and education programs, to enhance ... An Associate's of Applied Science in Behavioral Health Support will also fulfill educational ...

Youth Development Associate information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$26.4K

$48.6K

$73.7K

How much do youth development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth development associate in Springfield, MO is $48,590.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,700.00 and $54,600.00 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 Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Youth Development jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Youth Development Associate jobs in Springfield, MO? For Youth Development Associate jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Youth Development Associate jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Development Associate jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Youth Development Associate jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Youth Development Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Youth Development Associate job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,590 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Community Support Specialist (Youth)

Brightli

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Brightli rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description:
Job Title: Community Support Specialist
Location: Springfield, Missouri
Department: Youth Community Services
Employment Type: Full-time
Job Summary:
Are you passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in your community? Join our compassionate and collaborative team at Burrell Behavioral Health as a Community Support Specialist! In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with youth and families, providing mentorship and guidance to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. You will gain incredibly valuable experience in the field of behavioral health while making a real difference in people's lives every day. Enjoy a uniquely welcoming and supportive culture, ample opportunities for professional growth, and a fulfilling career that offers variety and purpose.
As a youth Community Support Specialist, you will work with youth and families in various capacities, providing mentorship, guidance, and hope to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. You'll have the chance to work in different settings, including clients' homes, clinics, and other community locations, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs.
This position offers...
Employee Assistance Program - 24/7 counseling services, legal assistance, & financial consultation for you and your household at no cost
Mileage Reimbursement - Company paid for work functions requiring travel
Employee Discounts - Hotels, Theme Parks & Attractions, College Tuition
Workplace Culture - An environment cultivating employee wellbeing, valuing each individual's humanity, and actively promoting a healthy, joyful workforce
Additional Perks & Benefits - Scroll down to bottom of this post to learn more
Key Responsibilities:
• Deliver life-changing mental health services by providing top-notch care to clients out in the community.
• Empower clients through behavioral interventions by utilizing effective techniques like motivational interviewing, operant conditioning, and cognitive processing to help clients achieve their treatment goals and improve their overall well-being.
• Foster recovery and resilience by taking a supportive educational approach to promote improved functioning and meet the unique needs of each client.
• Manage a rewarding caseload by establishing and maintaining a manageable caseload, collaborating with supervisory staff to ensure a fulfilling workload that allows you to make a meaningful impact in clients' lives.
• Collaborate in client care by participating in staffing sessions to identify client needs, set treatment goals, and develop individualized plans for success.
• Respond to emergencies with confidence by using sound judgment and discretion to provide timely assistance during mental health crises.
• Ensure continuity of care by providing comprehensive follow-up services to clients, including follow-up for missed appointments, outreach, and engagement as needed.
• Grow and learn with Burrell by actively participating in staff development activities, such as meetings, training sessions, and workshops, to enhance your skillset and stay current with industry trends.
Education, Experience, and/or Credential Qualifications:
There are several ways in which you may qualify for this position including: Education, certification, or experience. Please scroll down carefully for more information:
• Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields of study: Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, Education, Criminal Justice, Family Studies, Counseling, Recreational Therapy, Human Services, Human Development, Child Development, Gerontology, Behavioral Science, Rehabilitation Counseling
OR...
• Associate of Applied Science in Behavioral Health Support degree from an approved institution
OR....
• Work experience in a related human services field may substitute for educational requirements. *Related fields may include direct support such as case management, residential support, developmentally disabled support, vocational rehabilitation, and more. Four years of qualifying experience minimum or a combination of education and experience equaling four years required.
OR....
• Qualified Addictions Professional (QAP) - CADC, CRADC, CRAADC, CCJP, RADC-P, RADC, CCDP, CCDP-D
Additional Qualifications:
• A valid driver's license and a reliable vehicle
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment
• Compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others
Keywords: Community Support, Social Work, Mental Health, Counseling, Case Management, Community Outreach, Advocacy, Support Services, Crisis Intervention, Behavioral Health, Human Services, Public Health, Nonprofit, Collaboration, Partnership Building, Networking, Cultural Competency
Position Perks & Benefits:
Paid time off: full-time employees receive an attractive time off package to balance your work and personal life
Employee benefits package: full-time employees receive health, dental, vision, retirement, life, & more
Top-notch training: initial, ongoing, comprehensive, and supportive
Career mobility: advancement opportunities/promoting from within
Welcoming, warm, supportive: a work culture & environment that promotes your well-being, values you as human being, and encourages your health and happiness.
Brightli is on a Mission:
A mission to improve client care, reduce the financial burden of community mental health centers by sharing resources, a mission to have a larger voice in advocacy to increase access to mental health and substance user care in our communities, and a mission to evolve the behavioral health industry to better meet the needs of our clients.
As a behavioral and community mental health provider, we prioritize fostering a culture of belonging and connection within our workforce. We encourage applications from individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences, as we believe that a rich tapestry of perspectives strengthens our mission. If you are passionate about empowering local communities and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported, we invite you to join our mission-driven organization dedicated to cultivating an authentic workplace.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Burrell Behavioral Health is a Smoke and Tobacco Free Workplace.

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