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How much do youth developmental specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth developmental specialist in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Youth Developmental Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Youth Developmental Specialist, you need a solid understanding of adolescent development, behavior management, and program planning, often supported by a degree in social work, psychology, or education. Familiarity with case management software, trauma-informed care practices, and relevant certifications such as CPR/First Aid is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and conflict resolution skills help build trust and rapport with youth in challenging situations. These skills are essential for fostering positive growth, ensuring safety, and effectively guiding young people through critical stages of development.

How do Youth Developmental Specialists typically collaborate with families and other professionals to support youth progress?

Youth Developmental Specialists often work closely with families, educators, and social service professionals to create and implement individualized development plans for youth. This collaboration may include regular meetings, progress updates, and coordinated strategies to address behavioral, emotional, or educational needs. Fostering strong communication with all parties is key, as it ensures consistency and holistic support for each young person. Building these partnerships can be challenging but is essential for achieving lasting, positive outcomes.

What is a Youth Developmental Specialist?

A Youth Developmental Specialist is a professional who works with young people to support their emotional, social, and educational growth. They often design and implement programs that help youth develop life skills, build self-esteem, and achieve their personal goals. These specialists may work in schools, community organizations, or juvenile justice settings, providing guidance and mentorship to youth facing various challenges. Their main goal is to foster positive development and help young people reach their full potential.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

In child development, senior roles such as Child Development Director or Pediatric Healthcare Administrator tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills in educational or healthcare settings.

What is the difference between Youth Developmental Specialist vs Youth Counselor?

AspectYouth Developmental SpecialistYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires certification or licensure in counseling or related field
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, schools, residential facilities, non-profit organizationsSchools, community centers, mental health clinics, residential treatment centers
Employer & Industry UsageNon-profit organizations, government agencies, educational institutionsEducational institutions, mental health agencies, juvenile justice systems

Both roles focus on supporting youth, but Youth Developmental Specialists often work in community settings providing developmental support and activities, while Youth Counselors typically offer counseling and mental health services. The choice depends on the specific work environment and credentials held.

More about Youth Developmental Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Youth Developmental Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Youth Developmental Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Youth Developmental Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Youth Developmental Specialist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Youth Developmental Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Developmental Specialist jobs are:
Youth Developmental Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Developmental Specialist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,274 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Overnight Youth Development Specialist

Overnight Youth Development Specialist

Rawhide Youth Services

New London, WI • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Purpose:

This Youth Development Specialist role provides night-time coverage and direct-care support of the nightly functions and objectives of the Living Unit. Under the direction of the Living Unit Supervisor, the Youth Development Specialist will work with a team to create, implement and sustain a therapeutic culture that recognizes and values progress toward the treatment goals of our youth.

Wage Range:    $23-25 per hour 

Essential Job Functions:

  • Provides care and therapeutic treatment of Rawhide youth within the residential programs
  • Works in conjunction with all teams involved in the development and implementation of individual treatment plans
  • Assists withresidential operations and processes including medication administration
  • Completes accurate documentation to remain in compliance with licensing requirements

Job Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree preferred; but must have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Meet one of the following qualifications
  • Have an associates or bachelor’s degree with a focus on child and youth care work or in a social or behavioral science field
  • Have at least 1 year of successful experience working in a recognized child welfare setting for the type of population served by Rawhide
  • Completion of Rawhide’s supervised traineeship program
  • 2-3 years of relevant experience preferred

Skills for Youth Development Specialist:

  • Exercises critical thinking, judgment and discernment
  • Ability to identify and respond to crisis situations
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds and stand for long periods of time
  • Physically able to meet the demands of the position, including providing therapeutic physical restraints
  • Valid driver’s license with insurable driving record

Benefit Overview:

  • Competitive Pay 
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Competitive 401k plan
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • PTO, VTO, Wellness Day, & Floating Holiday
  • 5 Weeks Paid Sabbatical Leave
  • Onsite Café and Coffee Shop (New London)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Nature Trails/Waterfront on 600+ acres (New London)
  • Onsite Fitness Center and Gymnasium (New London)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Jury Duty Leave
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Paid Benefits for Birth or Adoption

https://www.rawhide.org/careers/youth-development-specialist/

Apply