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Youth Development Program Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Youth Development Program Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$23.7K

$55.8K

$100.4K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth development program director in Chicago, IL is $55,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $66,400.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth development program director?

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.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Youth Development Program jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Youth Development Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Youth Development Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Youth Development Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Youth Development Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Youth Development Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Youth Development Program Director jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Youth Development Program Director job openings:

Youth Development Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Development Program Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,767 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Program Director | Youth Soccer Programs

Soccer Shots - Chicago NW Suburbs

Barrington, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free uniforms
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Profit sharing
  • Training & development

Program Director | Youth Soccer Programs
Northwest Chicago Suburbs, IL | Hybrid | Full-time
Soccer Shots is seeking a motivated and energetic Program Director to lead and grow our youth soccer programs serving children ages 2–8. This role combines coaching, leadership, program management, and business development.
The Program Director plays a key role in ensuring high-quality program delivery while expanding our reach by building partnerships with schools, childcare centers, and community organizations.
This is a hands-on leadership role that includes coaching approximately 2–3 hours per day, supporting coaches, managing operations, and developing new program locations.
Territory
This role manages Soccer Shots programs across the Northwest Chicago suburbs, including:
• Schaumburg
 • Hoffman Estates
 • Streamwood
 • Elgin
 • Algonquin
 • Lake in the Hills
 • Crystal Lake
Primary service area ZIP codes include:
60193
Travel between locations within this territory is required.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Coaching
• Lead 2–3 hours of soccer classes daily for children ages 2–8
• Deliver Soccer Shots’ engaging and structured curriculum focused on motor skills and character development
• Mentor, train, and support coaches to maintain high program standards
• Ensure sessions are fun, safe, and professionally delivered
Program Growth & Partnerships
• Identify and secure new partner locations including schools, daycares, and community centers
• Conduct outreach through meetings, calls, and in-person visits with school administrators and directors
• Expand Soccer Shots programs into new territories and locations
• Drive enrollment growth across current and new locations
Operations & Program Management
• Manage the administration and scheduling of current programs
• Oversee coach staffing, schedules, and program coverage
• Maintain communication with schools, administrators, and parents
• Ensure consistent program quality and operational standards
Team Development
• Recruit, interview, and onboard new coaches
• Provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback
• Foster a positive, professional and accountable team culture
Qualifications
• Strong leadership and people management skills
 • Passion for working with children and youth development
 • Organized and comfortable managing multiple responsibilities
 • Comfortable with sales, outreach, and partnership development
• Energetic, engaging, and comfortable leading youth activities
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for local travel
Compensation & Benefits
• Competitive base salary
 • Bonus for every new partner location secured
• Seasonal performance bonuses every 3 months based on growth and performance
• Mileage reimbursement for travel between locations
• Paid training and professional development
• Opportunity for career growth within Soccer Shots
About Soccer Shots
Soccer Shots is a nationally recognized children’s soccer program focused on character development, confidence building, and age-appropriate soccer skills. Our mission is to positively impact children’s lives through fun, engaging, and meaningful soccer experiences.
Join Our Team
If you are passionate about leadership, youth development, coaching, and growing programs in your community, we would love to hear from you.

Flexible work from home options available.