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Youth Development Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Youth Development Program information

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$9

$16

$30

How much do youth development program jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth development program in California is $16.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a youth development program role?

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Youth Development Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Youth Development Program jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Youth Development Program jobs?

Cities in California with the most Youth Development Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Youth Development Program job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,043 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Youth Development Professional

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Central Coast

Guadalupe, CA โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Build positive relationships with youth and serve as a mentor and role model.

  • Plan and lead fun, educational and developmentally appropriate activities based on the interests and needs of members.

  • Actively supervise members and maintain a safe, positive environment.


Job description

Description:

Guadalupe Jr High | Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast
Pay Range: $18.50–$21.50 per hour, based on experience and education


Help Young People Learn, Grow & Thrive

Do you enjoy working with young people, bringing energy to a room, and helping kids discover what they’re capable of?


Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast is looking for a Youth Development Professional to join our team at Guadalupe Jr High. This is a hands-on role for someone who wants to build meaningful relationships with youth while creating a safe, welcoming and engaging place for them to learn, have fun and grow.


Our mission is to enable all youth, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.


As a Youth Development Professional, you’ll be one of the caring adults who helps make that mission happen every day.

Requirements: What You’ll Do

No two days at the Club are exactly the same. You’ll help create an environment where young people feel safe, supported and excited to participate.

You will:

  • Build positive relationships with youth and serve as a mentor and role model.
  • Plan and lead fun, educational and developmentally appropriate activities based on the interests and needs of our members.
  • Encourage youth to participate, try new things and develop confidence.
  • Provide positive behavior guidance and help youth strengthen their social-emotional skills.
  • Actively supervise members and maintain a safe, positive environment.
  • Help with tutoring, mentoring and cooperative learning activities.
  • Communicate positively and professionally with youth, families, coworkers, volunteers and school partners.
  • Keep program spaces organized, welcoming, clean and ready for activities.
  • Maintain basic attendance, program and member records.
  • Participate in staff training and professional development.

Most importantly, you’ll have the opportunity to be a consistent, encouraging adult in the lives of young people in Guadalupe.


We’d Love to Meet You If You...
  • Are 18 years of age or older.
  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Have at least one year of experience working directly with school-aged youth.
  • Enjoy mentoring, tutoring, coaching, leading activities or working with young people.
  • Can connect with youth while also setting clear, positive expectations.
  • Are dependable, responsible and able to work collaboratively with others.
  • Communicate well with youth, families, coworkers and community partners.
  • Can stay flexible and positive in an active, high-energy environment.
  • Are comfortable being active and on your feet for much of the workday.
  • Are willing and able to complete applicable school district requirements.

Experience planning youth programs or activities is a plus.


What Makes Someone Successful in This Role?

You don’t have to know everything on day one.


We’re looking for someone who shows up for kids, brings enthusiasm and patience to their work, follows through on commitments and understands that relationships are at the heart of great youth development.


The right person is willing to jump into a game, help with homework, lead an activity, redirect a challenging moment, celebrate a young person’s success and help create the kind of Club environment youth want to come back to every day.


Benefits

Benefits may include, based on eligibility:

  • Paid sick leave
  • Paid vacation time
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Staff training and opportunities for professional development
Join Our Team

If you’re looking for work that is active, meaningful and centered around helping young people succeed, we’d love to hear from you.


Apply today to become a Youth Development Professional at Guadalupe Jr High and help us open doors to opportunity for local youth.


Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast is an at-will employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, absent undue hardship.