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Youth Development Program Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Youth Development Program information

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How much do youth development program jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth development program in Florida is $12.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.24 and $13.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Youth Development Program job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,535 per year, or $12.8 per hour.

Program Director II, Youth Development

YMCA OF FLORIDA'S FIRST COAST

Orange Park, FL โ€ข On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
Oversees 7-10 Before/Afterschool sites and 1-4 summer day camps. Develops, organizes, implements and leads programs, supervises staff, monitors YMCA and State policy and procedures, interacts effectively with staff, parents and supervisor, and adheres to written budgets to foster individual growth and development of the children at the YMCA.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
    1. Manages, directs and coordinates Youth Development programs for assigned location(s). Ensures high quality programs through implementing and monitoring our School Age Curriculum.
    2. Recruits, hires, trains, develops, schedules and directs personnel and volunteers as needed to ensure adequate and quality supervisor of children and effective implementation of quality activities. Reviews and evaluates staff performance. Develops strategies to motivate staff and achieve goals.
    3. Manages and controls budgets related to the position. Ensures program operates within budget and that program fees are collected. Supports and budgets for healthy eating through coaching, mentoring, and monitoring menu quality (H.E.P.A).
    4. Assures compliance with state and local regulations as they relate to program areas. Ensures that YMCA program standards are met and safety procedures followed. Maintains and ensures compliance with written activity schedule, menu, fire drills, incident/accident reports and other forms of parent and staff communication.
    5. Provides for upkeep of assigned program facilities and equipment and ensures the physical environment supports healthy living.
    6. Provides staff leadership for annual fund raising campaign and committees as assigned.
    7. Develops and maintains relationships with state child care licensing agency, school administration, parent groups and other organizations and agencies related to assigned programs. Responds to all agency, parent and community inquiries and complaints in a timely manner.
    8. Maintains proper records and written reports including department files on each child and staff.
    9. Organizes special events for parents.
    10. Assists with Program Committee meetings.
    11. Assists in the marketing and distribution of program information.
    12. Compiles program statistics. Monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of and participation in program.
    13. Facilitates collections and the provision of financial aid in a responsible and consistent manner as assigned.
    14. Ensures all First Coast YMCA standards and best practices are implemented and followed.
    15. Applies YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to best practices, emergency procedures, medical and disciplinary situations and child abuse prevention.
    16. Ensures the health and safety of all members/guests.
    17. Inspect physical space to ensure the safety, orderliness, sanitation and cleanliness of facilities.
    18. Demonstrates compliance with YMCA Child Abuse Prevention and Abuse Risk Management policies.

NOTE: This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions. It does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.
YMCA COMPETENCIES (Team Leader):
Inclusion: Ensures all staff model and apply cultural competency and global awareness in youth development work.
Relationships: Provide structured opportunities for staff and parents/caregivers to work together towards common goals for children and youth. Develops partnerships between staff and parents and community organization in order to maximize program impact.
Communication: Offers ongoing communication with parents and caregivers as partners around program goals. Ensure staff understand and apply appropriate listening and speaking techniques when working with children and youth.
Developing Others: Provides ongoing training and resources around child and youth development techniques and strategies for staff.
Quality Results: Actively implements regular evaluations of program goals, environment and outcomes.
Project Management: Reviews program plans and records to ensure that they are consistent with evidence based practice.
Functional Expertise: Uses best practices, guidelines and method of youth development in daily work. Recognizes the social, emotional and cognitive and physical stages and milestones every child and youth experience during their journey from birth to careers.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. High School diploma required. Bachelor's degree preferred.
  2. Three or more year's related experience preferred, as a coordinator or supervisor of child care programs.
  3. Minimum age requirements may apply; for example, minimum age of 21.
  4. CPR, First Aid, AED certifications prior to the first day of the program.
  5. 40 Hours of Child Care Certification preferred
  6. Fulfillment of state-specific hiring standards and completion of YMCA program specific certifications.
  7. Ability to develop, train and implement quality developmentally appropriate activities.
  8. Strong interpersonal skills and team oriented.
  9. Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  10. Able to work in a diverse environment.
  11. Flexibility, resourcefulness, high energy and adapt to changing needs.
  12. Organization and Time management skills necessary to meet deadlines.
  13. Ability to present a positive image to staff, participants, colleagues, supervisors and the community.
  14. Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires the following: Seeing, hearing, writing, standing, walking, sitting, kneeling, crouching, bending, lifting (50 lbs.), pushing (50 lbs.) and pulling (50 lbs.)