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Youth Development Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Youth Development Program Coordinator Department: Youth Development Services (YDS) Reports to: Program Manager Position Objective and Summary: The Program Coordinator is responsible for the ...

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How much do youth development program jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth development program in the United States is $17.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Youth Development Program role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Youth Development Program role, you need a background in education, social work, or a related field, along with experience working with young people. Familiarity with youth engagement tools, program management software, and certifications such as CPR/First Aid or youth development credentials are often required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, cultural competency, and the ability to motivate and mentor are vital soft skills for building trust and rapport with youth participants. These skills ensure effective program delivery, positive youth outcomes, and a safe, inclusive environment for all participants.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in youth development programs and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in youth development programs often encounter challenges such as engaging diverse groups of young people, managing behavioral issues, and addressing varying levels of family or community support. Building trust and rapport with participants is essential, as is adapting activities to meet the unique needs of each individual. Successful professionals leverage strong communication skills, collaborate closely with colleagues and community partners, and pursue ongoing training in youth engagement strategies to overcome these challenges and create a supportive environment for growth.

What is a Youth Development Program?

A Youth Development Program is an organized initiative designed to support the personal, social, and educational growth of young people. These programs provide activities, mentorship, and resources that help youth build skills, confidence, and positive relationships. They often focus on areas such as leadership, career readiness, health, and community engagement. By participating in these programs, young people can develop important life skills and prepare for successful futures.

What is the difference between Youth Development Program vs Youth Counselor?

AspectYouth Development ProgramYouth Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in education, social work, or related field; certifications in youth work or counselingRequires similar credentials; often includes counseling certifications or training in youth engagement
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, non-profit organizations, summer campsSchools, community centers, juvenile facilities, non-profit agencies
Employer & IndustryNon-profits, government agencies, educational institutionsEducational institutions, social service agencies, juvenile justice systems
Primary FocusProgram development, youth engagement, skill-building activitiesProviding guidance, mentorship, and support to youth

While both roles focus on youth engagement, Youth Development Programs typically involve designing and managing activities to promote youth growth, whereas Youth Counselors focus on direct mentorship and support. Both roles require similar credentials and are found in community and educational settings, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly.

What cities are hiring for Youth Development Program jobs? Cities with the most Youth Development Program job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Development Program jobs? The most popular types of Youth Development Program jobs are:
What states have the most Youth Development Program jobs? States with the most job openings for Youth Development Program jobs include:
Youth Development Program Coordinator

Youth Development Program Coordinator

UCAN

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description
Position Title: Youth Development Program Coordinator
Department: Youth Development Services (YDS)
Reports to: Program Manager
Position Objective and Summary:
The Program Coordinator is responsible for the development and coordination of services for this program. In collaboration with the RYD Program Manager, the Program Coordinator ensures program goals, outcomes, and grant deliverables are achieved in a timely manner. The Program Coordinator will assist in the planning, coordinating and facilitation of civic engagement outings, and provide supervision and guidance to youth participants, and the team. The Program Coordinator must have the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively internally and externally to partners, stakeholders, and other entities.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
Monitoring Service Delivery
  • Develop and maintain relationships with community stakeholders as outlined by the Program Manager
  • In adherence with the RYD Program requirements, supervises and engage youth.
  • Assist in the recruitment of participants, wraparound services, and community resources
  • Assist in the planning, coordination and facilitation of Social Emotional Learning, job readiness, and life skills.
  • Ensure public awareness via outreach with community organizations, schools, churches and other entities.
  • Attend all staff and program meetings as well as plan events to represent programs.
  • Promote service offerings within the continuum of Youth Development.
  • Able to become proficient with the agency's data management system.
  • Work with Program Manager to complete reports, maintain program compliance, and the planning of program deliverables.
  • Basic understanding of the effects of trauma and operate from that perspective when interacting with youth and families.
  • Ability to identify unique resources throughout the Chicago area.

Developing and Leading Employees
  • Orients and trains new staff according to program and department guidelines to ensure all are ready and able to perform as necessary.
  • Assigns work assignments and provides appropriate level of direction.
  • Sets and evaluates clear and collaborative individual performance goals for participants.
  • Coaches and mentor's participants around professional interests and career goals recognizing and rewarding performance, initiative and decision-making.

Quality and Accountability
  • Uses UCAN AAA processes to ensure quality and accountability in program performance.
  • Ensures contract funder performance requirements are met, and reports results as necessary.
  • Follows all applicable regulatory standards, including but not limited to: COA standards, Mandated Reporter, and CPS requirements.

Networking and Team Building
  • Build strong interpersonal relationships with team and among the team members.
  • Participates in regular and productive team and meetings and encourages participation.
  • Coordinates services with multiple UCAN programs to ensure appropriate services for participants and programs under the Prevention and Empowerment hub.

Professionalism and Work Conduct
  • Behaves with integrity, demonstrates high ethical standards, and displays a positive image of UCAN.
  • Acts in a professional manner always and maintains appropriate boundaries with clients and staff.
  • Reports to work, meetings, training, and job-related activities prepared and as scheduled.
  • Understands and supports UCAN's standard of cultural proficiency and strives to meet it.
  • Responds to clients and their families, UCAN staff, and other service providers in a timely manner and ensures follow up to adequately address their need.
  • Performs other related tasks as required or assigned.

Education/Job Experience/Certification:
  • Bachelor's degree in human services or related field
  • 3+ years of experience in youth development programming.

Special Knowledge and Qualifications:
  • Understand trauma-informed practice.
  • Understands Positive Youth Development.
  • Is open and respectful of cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of clients and is willing and competent to work with a diverse client population.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Working knowledge of the child welfare system.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a highly functioning team.
  • Experience and ability to use computers for data entry, communication and report writing.
  • Car and valid Illinois driver's license and insurance required.

Work Environment: This position requires work off-site and in the community. This position requires evening and weekend work hours.
Work Conditions: This position may require work on weekends and evenings.