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Youth Development Program Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Youth Development Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$18.90 - $19.67/hr

Ensures the safety and well-being of girls in the program. Managed behaviors and provide emotional ... Youth Development Specialist II: Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Education or ...

Youth Development Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$18.90 - $19.67/hr

Ensures the safety and well-being of girls in the program. Managed behaviors and provide emotional ... Youth Development Specialist II: Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Education or ...

Youth Development Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Ensures the safety and well-being of girls in the program. Managed behaviors and provide emotional ... Youth Development Specialist II: Bachelors degree in Human Services, Social Work, Education or ...

Youth Development Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Ensures the safety and well-being of girls in the program. Managed behaviors and provide emotional ... Youth Development Specialist II: Bachelors degree in Human Services, Social Work, Education or ...

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Youth Development Program information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$9

$17

$31

How much do youth development program jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth development program in Pennsylvania is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Development Program jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Youth Development Program jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Youth Development Program jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Youth Development Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Youth Development Program job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,594 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Youth Development Operations Leader

Abraxas Youth and Family Services

South Mountain, PA โ€ข On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

❤️ Make an Impact Every Day to Shape Futures

Youth Development Operations Leader

???? Leadership Development Program (LDP, Building 6)

10058 South Mountain Road, Building 6, South Mountain, PA

???? Full-Time

???? $22.00/hour

???? DailyPay Available

Looking for More Than Just a Job?

At Abraxas Youth and Family Services we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, fulfilling, and independent life.

We’re seeking compassionate, dedicated professionals who are looking for more than a paycheck. We’re looking for individuals who want to make a difference, build rewarding careers, and become part of a team committed to helping others succeed.

Whether you’re beginning your career, changing professions, or bringing years of experience, we provide the training, support, and opportunities needed to help you thrive.

No experience required for many positions. Paid training provided.

About Abraxas Youth and Family Services

For more than 53 years, Abraxas Youth and Family Services has been dedicated to improving lives through high-quality services and support.

Our employees play a vital role in helping individuals achieve greater independence, confidence, and success while promoting dignity, respect, inclusion, and personal choice.

Every day, our team members make a meaningful impact by supporting people in reaching their goals and living their best lives.

Why Join Our Team????? Competitive Pay & Benefits

• Competitive Compensation

• DailyPay – Access Your Earned Wages Before Payday

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• 401(k) Retirement Plan

• Paid Time Off

• Employee Assistance Program

• Wellness Programs

• Employee Referral Bonuses

• Company-Paid Training

???? Career Growth & Development

• Paid Training Programs

• Professional Development Opportunities

• Certification Opportunities

• Leadership Development Programs

• Career Advancement Opportunities

• Opportunities Across Multiple Service Lines

❤️ Meaningful Work That Matters

• Make a Difference Every Day

• Support Individuals and Families

• Build Meaningful Relationships

• Strengthen Communities

• Join a Mission-Driven Organization

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will mentor Youth Development Team Leaders, assist in monitoring various processes on multiple units, supervise and interact with clients, observe and address client behavior, and document services in client files.

Job Duties Include, but not limited to:

  • Oversee the implementation of activities which support the daily schedule on one or more units at the facility.
  • Ensure standard operating procedures, program policy and procedures, and the client interventions process are implemented appropriately.
  • Interact with and supervise clients during daily activities in a manner that ensures their safety and security.
  • Provide effective people security (e.g., headcounts, room checks, client movement)
  • Provide effective on-the-job training to Youth Development Team Leaders.
  • Observe client behavior and intervene appropriately.
  • Process intakes and screen clients according to program policy.
  • Facilitate and document various groups/meetings.
  • Administer medication or supervise self-administration of medication when necessary.
  • Know and implement emergency procedures (e.g. evacuation, CPR/first aid).
  • Support the Abraxas philosophy and mission and promotes the Seven Key Principles of care.
  • Demonstrate appropriate use of Safe Crisis Management techniques and skills
Who We’re Looking For

You may be a great fit if you are:

✔ Compassionate

✔ Dependable

✔ Patient

✔ Team-Oriented

✔ Service-Focused

✔ Professional

✔ Positive

✔ Committed to Helping Others

Qualifications

Education and Experience Required:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Detention unit employees must have an associate’s degree or sixty (60) credit hours from an accredited college or university.
  • Six (6) months’ experience as Youth Development Team Leader

Other Qualifications:

  • At least twenty-one (21) years of age
  • Must have a valid Driver's License
  • Physical exam that includes TB and drug testing.
  • Must pass both federal and state background checks which screen for crimes including, but not limited to drug related crimes, violent crimes, sexual abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, and repeated misdemeanors.
  • Satisfactory completion of background screening and applicable pre-employment checks, including but not limited to employment and/or personal reference and driving records.
  • Ability to work with computers and the necessary software typically used by the department.
Schedule

• Full-Time

• 2:45 pm - 10:45 pm, including every weekend

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and assist individuals as needed

• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation

???? Join Us in Building Better Futures! Apply Today!

Some jobs pay the bills.

Some jobs build careers.

This job changes lives.

If you’re looking for meaningful work where your compassion, dedication, and hard work make a real difference every day, we encourage you to apply today.

Join our team and become the reason someone has a better day.

About Our Organization

Abraxas Youth and Family Services is part of the Imperium family of companies.

Employment for this position is administered through Apis Services, Inc.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apis Services, Inc., Inperium Inc., and affiliates provide equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment in compliance with all federal and applicable state and local laws and regulations, including nondiscrimination in hiring and employment.

All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

This policy of nondiscrimination and equal employment opportunity extends to every phase and aspect of hiring and employment.

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