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Youth Development Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

YSS

Residential Recovery Intern (56166)

Cambridge, IA

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

You'll gain valuable experience in youth engagement, recovery support, relationship-building, and ... Participate in orientation, professional development, and required trainings, including Mandatory ...

D1 Training

Social Media Intern

Altoona, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Training & development * Wellness resources Social Media Internship Opportunity | D1 Training ... What began as training solely for the aspiring youth athlete, matured into fitness training for ...

YSS

Masters Level Treatment Intern (56171)

Cambridge, IA

$14.50 - $19/hr

... of youth, adults, and families. Learning Outcomes - By the end of this internship, you will ... Meet regularly with your supervisor for guidance, coaching, and professional development. * Assist ...

United Soccer League (USL)

USL Academy and USL Youth. Authentic, vital, and exciting, the USL is dedicated to providing an ... development, digital, club services, analytics, and more; with the ultimate goal of providing ...

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Youth Development Intern information

What types of projects and responsibilities can a youth development intern expect during their internship?

As a Youth Development Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with program planning, facilitating group activities, and supporting youth participants in their personal and academic growth. Interns often collaborate closely with experienced youth workers, educators, and community partners to deliver engaging workshops and events. You'll also gain experience in administrative tasks like tracking participant progress and helping with outreach efforts. This role offers a dynamic environment where adaptability and strong communication skills are key, and it provides valuable exposure to the field of youth services.

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

To thrive as a Youth Development Intern, you need a background in education, psychology, or social work, along with experience working with youth in community or educational settings. Familiarity with program management software, online collaboration tools, and child safety protocols is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate and mentor young people are essential soft skills for this role. These qualities are crucial because they enable interns to foster positive youth engagement, ensure program effectiveness, and create a safe, supportive environment.

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

AspectYouth Development InternYouth Program Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or college courseworkBachelor's degree often in education, social work, or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, community centers, nonprofitsFull-time roles in community organizations, schools, or nonprofits
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with youth activities, supporting program deliveryPlanning, implementing, and overseeing youth programs

The Youth Development Intern typically supports youth programs through assisting activities and gaining experience, while the Youth Program Coordinator manages and leads youth initiatives. Internships are entry-level, focusing on learning, whereas coordinators have more responsibility and require relevant experience.

What does a youth development intern do?

A Youth Development Intern assists in creating, implementing, and evaluating programs aimed at supporting the personal, academic, and social growth of young people. They often work alongside experienced youth workers to lead activities, mentor youth, and facilitate workshops. Interns may also help with administrative tasks, outreach, and event planning to ensure programs run smoothly. The role provides hands-on experience in youth services and helps interns develop skills in communication, leadership, and program coordination.
What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Development jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Youth Development jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Youth Development Intern jobs in Iowa? For Youth Development Intern jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Youth Development Intern jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Development Intern jobs in Iowa are:
Youth Development Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Development Intern job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Residential Recovery Intern (56166)

Iowa Youth Services

Cambridge, IA • On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Internship

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Come join our Ember team as a Residential Recovery Intern!
At YSS our Residential Recovery Interns have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting youth as they navigate their recovery journey. Working alongside a dedicated team of professionals, you'll learn what it takes to create a safe, structured, and supportive environment where young people can build confidence, develop healthy skills, and work toward lasting change.
This internship provides a unique opportunity to see residential recovery services in action while learning from experienced staff who are passionate about helping youth and families thrive. You'll gain valuable experience in youth engagement, recovery support, relationship-building, and the day-to-day operations of a residential treatment setting.
Learning Outcomes - By the end of this internship, you will:
  • Gain firsthand experience working in a residential addiction treatment environment.
  • Develop skills in youth engagement, communication, and professional relationship-building.
  • Learn about recovery support, trauma-informed care, and strengths-based approaches.
  • Practice responding to challenges with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
  • Understand the role of structure, consistency, and connection in helping youth succeed.
  • Explore career opportunities in behavioral health, social work, counseling, and related fields.

Job Duties - Responsibilities for this internship include:
  • Shadow residential recovery staff and learn about addiction treatment, recovery support, and daily program operations.
  • Build positive relationships with youth through encouragement, support, and role modeling.
  • Assist with resident supervision, daily routines, activities, and skill-building opportunities.
  • Participate in recovery-focused groups and learn strategies for coping skills, conflict resolution, and healthy decision-making.
  • Support a safe, structured, and welcoming residential environment.
  • Assist with transportation, meals, school support, and other program needs.
  • Complete documentation, administrative tasks, and other responsibilities that support program operations.
  • Participate in orientation, professional development, and required trainings, including Mandatory Reporter and CPR/First Aid.
  • Meet regularly with a supervisor for guidance, feedback, and reflection.

Who You Are
You're ready to turn what you've learned in the classroom into meaningful, hands-on experience. You're compassionate, dependable, and interested in behavioral health, counseling, psychology, social work, criminal justice, or a related field. You enjoy connecting with people from all walks of life, are open to feedback, and are eager to learn from experienced professionals while making a positive impact in your community.
Schedule / Time Commitment
  • Schedule is flexible to meet interns needs. It is the intern's responsibility to ensure the number of hours worked meets their academic requirements.
  • At least 4 hours must be completed each week, between the hours of 7:00 am - 10:30 pm

We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a "Can Do" Spirit.
Required Qualifications - MUST HAVES:
  • Must be at least 19 years old.
  • Currently pursuing a bachelors degree.
  • Possesses general understanding of the issues facing at-risk youth and their families.
  • Must have access to reliable transportation

Preferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:
  • All majors are accepted. The following majors are preferred: Criminal Justice, Social Work, Human Services and related fields.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA requirements and professional ethical standards.
  • Ability to remain calm, professional, and compassionate in challenging situations.
  • Possesses excellent observational, listening, verbal, and writing skills.
  • Reliable, steady, and able to follow through independently
  • Ability to work collaboratively and independently
  • Proficient with the majority of Microsoft Office applications and basic database use.
  • Curious and eager to learn.
  • Takes initiative, seeks out opportunities for learning, and effectively manages one's own time and work.

The IDEAL Candidate
  • Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
  • Brings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
  • Speaks a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).

We Celebrate Your Story...
Have you navigated recovery from addiction, mental health challenges, trauma, or housing instability? Your lived experience offers a unique, compassionate perspective that can inspire real change. By sharing your story and serving as a role model or mentor, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and families. Your journey matters. If you're ready to use it to uplift and empower others, we warmly encourage you to apply.
Who We Are...
We're YSS-one of Iowa's largest and longest-standing nonprofits dedicated to putting kids first. Our mission is simple but powerful: spark hope, create opportunity, and help young people thrive.
  • From life-changing programs to a new 50-acre recovery campus, we're expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at yss.org.
  • We value the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we're committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and succeed.
  • YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.

Stay Connected...
We communicate with applicants via email - straight from our Paycom system address: systemmessage@paycomonline.com. Please check your inbox regularly (and your spam/junk folder just in case). If the message does end up in spam/junk, make sure to add systemmessage@paycomonline.com to your list of safe senders. We may also send you texts if you give us that permission when you apply. Questions? Reach us anytime at yss@yss.org
Our Hiring Process - Here's What to Expect...
  • Apply - Submit your application at yss.org/ysscareers
  • Assessment - We review your skills and experience
  • Interview - Phone, video, or in-person conversation
  • References - We'll connect with 3+ professional references
  • Screening - Background check, driving record check, and license verification if required
  • Offer - If it's a match, you'll receive a formal offer through Paycom

Apply