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Youth Development Program Director Jobs in Elgin, IL

Urban Initiatives

Program Manager, Continuum

Chicago, IL · On-site

$52K/yr

Urban Initiatives Overview Founded in 2003, Urban Initiatives is a nonprofit organization that runs youth development programs in the Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Urban Initiatives' mission is to ...

Alternatives, Inc.

Level 2 Youth Advocate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K/yr

Level 2 Youth Advocate Direct Report: YASS and Crisis Coordinator Full-time; Exempt Salary: $55,790 ... Our school and community-based therapy, prevention and leadership development programs support ...

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All JobsYouth Development Program JobsYouth Development Program Director JobsYouth Development Program Director Jobs in Elgin, IL

Youth Development Program Director information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$22.7K

$53.5K

$96.4K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth development program director in Elgin, IL is $53,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $63,800.00 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Youth Development Program Director jobs in Elgin, IL? For Youth Development Program Director jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Youth Development Program Director jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Development Program Director jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Youth Development Program Director jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Youth Development Program Director job openings:
Youth Development Program Director jobs near you

Youth Development Assistant

Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois

Aurora, IL

$18 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description

Job Summary

Youth Development Assistants (YDAs) play a vital role in creating a safe, positive, and engaging after-school environment for Club members. YDAs help deliver high-quality programs and activities that support the Boys & Girls Club mission while upholding the Five Key Elements of Positive Youth Development:

  • A Safe, Positive Environment
  • Fun
  • Supportive Relationships
  • Opportunities & Expectations
  • Recognition

YDAs support program planning, member engagement, and site operations to ensure every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

  • Arrive 20 minutes prior to program start to prepare materials and plans
  • Lead and support activities across program areas (education, arts, sports, STEM, etc.)
  • Display and review daily schedules with staff and members
  • Provide clear instructions, set expectations, and encourage participation
  • Promote member engagement and regroup members as needed for activities
  • Assist with small-group and special program opportunities
  • Ensure program areas are clean, organized, and safe
  • Monitor supplies and communicate needs to the Site Coordinator
  • Take attendance for each program and organize records for entry into MyClubHub
  • Take photos of member participation at least weekly
  • Highlight member achievements in program areas and displays
  • Communicate professionally via walkie-talkie and during interactions
  • Support Youth Program Quality Assessment (YPQA) and other evaluation processes
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Key Competencies

  • Program implementation
  • Safety awareness
  • Behavior management
  • Communication skills
  • Adaptability
  • Dependability
  • Emotional intelligence

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Requirements

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Strong organizational skills and effective time management
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and problem-solve
  • Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
  • Experience working with children or teens preferred
  • Ability to be flexible, patient, and supportive
  • Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment
  • Alignment with the mission, vision, and values of Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois
  • Availability to work Monday-Friday between 2:00 PM - 6:30 PM (specific shift times vary by program)
  • Bilingual abilities are a plus

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Experience working with children or teens preferred
  • Prior non-profit experience a plus

Mental / Emotional Requirements

  • Proficiency in planning, organizing, and coordinating activities
  • Effective time management to balance multiple responsibilities
  • Maintain patience and resilience in challenging situations
  • Stay calm and model positivity under pressure
  • Resolve conflicts effectively and de-escalate tense situations
  • Adapt to unexpected changes or challenges during program hours

Trauma-Informed Standards of Practice

  • Ensure compliance with safety training and promote physical and emotional safety in all interactions
  • Communicate transparently, set clear expectations, and foster trust-based relationships
  • Engage with intentionality and trauma awareness; seek resources to support members, families, and staff
  • Provide equitable, inclusive, and culturally relevant services
  • Empower youth, families, and staff through voice, choice, and ownership of the Club experience
  • Build connections that promote growth, collaboration, and shared problem-solving

Five Key Elements in Practice

  • Safe, Positive Environment: Promote safety, consistency, and stability. Maintain clean and organized spaces.
  • Fun: Create daily fun through team-building, icebreakers, and spontaneous activities.
  • Supportive Relationships: Build meaningful connections with youth, families, and colleagues.
  • Opportunities & Expectations: Help youth build skills, develop character, and pursue educational success.
  • Recognition: Celebrate and display member achievements. Provide positive reinforcement as youth grow and succeed.


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