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Youth Development Program Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

US Department of the Navy

Youth Director

Great Lakes, IL · On-site

$83K/yr

The purpose of the Youth Director position is to administer a developmentally appropriate youth program for children of eligible patrons. Administration includes the direction and operation of a ...

CNIC Careers

Youth Director

Great Lakes, IL · On-site

$83K/yr

The purpose of the Youth Director position is to administer a developmentally appropriate youth program for children of eligible patrons. Administration includes the direction and operation of a ...

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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 3, 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.

Youth Development Specialist - Part Time

Union League Boys and Girls Club

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

Position Summary:

The youth development specialist will provide programs and services on a daily basis to youth enrolled in the club, understand and implement the Mission of Union League Boys & Girls Clubs. The program specialist will serve as the direct supervisor for youth members. In our club, there are areas that you as a potential staff person need to make sure we are developing. These areas are: Good Character and Citizenship, Academic Success, and Healthy Lifestyles.

Responsibilities:

  • Executes programs designed by the coordinators
  • Assures members are safe and engaged in activities
  • Encourages emotional, social, and educational growth of individual members
  • Direct supervision of club youth members
  • Follow program design of the coordinators
  • Assists coordinators in assuring all materials for the day are prepared
  • Assures program areas are left cleaned and organized at the end of the day
  • Other possible responsibilities pertaining to the club include, but are not limited to:
  • Data entry
  • Staff supervision
  • Chaperone for field trips
  • Moving materials from the club to school, or school to club


Requirements

Knowledge:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of principles related to youth development
  • Ability to plan effectively
  • Group leadership skills
  • including and understanding of group dynamics and discipline
  • Understanding of the population of youth served.

Education:

Employees need to be 18 or older and be enrolled in college or have some college courses.

Experience:

Have worked or volunteered with children.

Scope of Authority:

The Youth Development Specialist's direct supervisor is the Youth Development and Programs Coordinator.

Skills Needed:

  • Communicate, listen and understand the children. Provide them with correct and timely information and feedback when requested.
  • Decision Making: Youth Development Specialist will inform the Youth Development and Programs Coordinator about the problem and will try to come to a solution. If a solution cannot be reached, the Assistant Club Director and/or the Director of Club Services will be contacted to resolve the problem.
  • Leadership-Be a Role Model for Co-Workers, volunteers and especially members.
  • Enhance and encourage the members to strive to meet their goals.
  • Personal Initiative to work and to achieve higher levels of responsibility to better serve the youth in all programs.
  • Planning and organizing by coming in and working on special days to accomplish the task and goals needed to implement the programs and activities for our youth such as: Youth of the Year Award, Youth of the Month Award, annual Gala, and other organization events.
  • Promote a Safe, and healthy environment. Making sure that the members know the safety rules of the Club are understood and met.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Desire and ability to work with children
  • Ability to accept supervision and guidance
  • Good character, integrity and adaptability
  • Enthusiasm, good judgment, patience and self-control
  • Positive example for youth and peers in appearance, attitude and behavior
  • Must participate in required trainings by the Club, County, State, and/or funders

Other Requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Be enrolled in college or have some college credits
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background check and drug test
  • Must attend all staff meetings
  • Responsible for all activities or program areas from beginning to end
  • Be able to maintain high level of energy.
  • Be adaptable and be flexible to change.
  • Assume other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor


Apply