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Youth Development Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Youth Development Program Aide

Farmville, VA · On-site

Under the direction of the Executive Director of Youth Development & the Site Coordinator, the Youth Development Program Aide assists the site coordinator in the supervision and carrying out of the ...

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$23K

$54.1K

$97.5K

How much do youth development program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth development program director in the United States is $54,135.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Youth Development Program Director do?

A Youth Development Program Director oversees programs and initiatives designed to support the growth and well-being of young people. They are responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating activities that foster positive youth development, such as after-school programs, leadership training, and community engagement. Additionally, they supervise staff, manage budgets, collaborate with community partners, and ensure that programs meet the needs of the youth they serve. The role requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

What is the difference between Youth Development Program Director vs Youth Activities Coordinator?

AspectYouth Development Program DirectorYouth Activities Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in education, social work, or related field; experience in youth programsHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience in youth activities preferred
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, community centers, schoolsRecreational facilities, community events, outdoor settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, schools, community organizationsRecreation centers, youth clubs, camps
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on program management and developmentFocuses on organizing activities and events

The Youth Development Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of youth programs, often managing staff and budgets. In contrast, the Youth Activities Coordinator primarily organizes and facilitates specific activities and events for youth. While both roles require experience working with youth, the director's role is broader, involving program strategy and administration, whereas the coordinator focuses on activity execution.

What does a director of program development do?

A youth development program director oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs aimed at supporting youth growth and education. They coordinate staff, manage budgets, develop curriculum, and ensure program goals align with organizational objectives, often using data and feedback to improve outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by a Youth Development Program Director, and how can they be addressed?

Youth Development Program Directors often encounter challenges such as limited resources, engaging diverse groups of young people, and ensuring program sustainability. Balancing administrative responsibilities with direct interaction can also be demanding. Strong communication skills, creative problem-solving, and cultivating partnerships with community organizations can help address these challenges. Establishing clear goals, regularly evaluating program effectiveness, and staying adaptable are also essential strategies for success in this role.

How much does a youth development specialist make?

A youth development specialist in New York City typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the organization. The role often requires strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of youth programs, with some positions offering additional benefits or opportunities for advancement.

What does a youth program director do?

A youth program director plans, organizes, and oversees programs aimed at youth development, education, and engagement. They coordinate activities, manage staff and volunteers, ensure safety and compliance, and evaluate program effectiveness to meet community or organizational goals.

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

To thrive as a Youth Development Program Director, you need strong leadership, program management, and youth engagement skills, often supported by a degree in education, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with grant writing, budgeting software, and youth program evaluation tools is typically required. Excellent communication, cultural competence, and conflict resolution are vital soft skills for building trust and fostering positive relationships with youth, staff, and community partners. These skills ensure effective program delivery, sustainable funding, and meaningful youth outcomes.

How much do program directors make in the US?

Youth Development Program Directors in the US typically earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and organization size. Salaries can vary based on the scope of programs managed and required certifications or degrees.
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What job categories do people searching Youth Development Program Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Development Program Director jobs are:
Youth Development Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Development Program Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,135 per year, or $26 per hour.

Program Director - Youth Development

ymcametrowash

Washington, DC • On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position:  Program Director – Youth Development                  Salary Range:  $50,000 - $52,000

Leading afterschool, camp, enrichment, and youth engagement programs.

Lead teams. Build programs. Strengthen community.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is seeking a passionate and experienced Program Director to lead high-quality youth development programs that support children, teens, and families across our communities in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

This leadership role is responsible for overseeing youth development programs, including out-of-school time, camps, enrichment programs, and other youth-serving initiatives. The Program Director provides operational leadership, staff supervision, program quality oversight, and community engagement to ensure exceptional experiences that help young people achieve, relate, and belong.

This position is ideal for a mission-driven leader who enjoys developing staff, building community partnerships, and creating safe, engaging environments where youth can thrive.

What you will do at the Y:

  • Lead daily operations for school-age and camp programs
  • Recruit, coach, and develop program staff and site leaders
  • Build a positive, mission-driven team culture
  • Ensure safe, engaging, and high-quality youth experiences
  • Strengthen relationships with families, schools, and community partners
  • Support enrollment growth and program expansion
  • Ensure compliance with licensing, safety, and YMCA standards
  • Collaborate with YMCA leadership on budgeting, staffing, and program performance

What You Bring:

  • 2+ years of leadership experience in youth programs, camps, recreation, afterschool, or community-based programs
  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Recreation, Human Services, Youth Development, or related field required for licensing compliance
  • Experience supervising teams and managing operations
  • Strong communication, organization, and relationship-building skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Commitment to positive youth development
  • Ability to meet applicable state licensing and regulatory requirements for youth-serving programs

Why You Should Join Us:  At the YMCA, you’ll do more than manage programs — you’ll help shape experiences that help young people build confidence, connection, and belonging.

We invest in leaders who want to grow their impact and strengthen communities.

  • Meaningful impact supporting youth and families in your community
  • Opportunity to lead a program and grow your leadership experience
  • Collaborative culture with a mission-driven team
  • Competitive salary: $50,000 – $52,000
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 10% retirement contribution after eligibility
  • Generous PTO and holidays
  • Ongoing training and leadership development
  • YMCA membership for you and your family

Join us in creating safe, engaging, and impactful programs for youth and families across our community – Appy Today!

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a workplace culture where all employees are treated with fairness and respect.

Apply