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Youth Program Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Youth counselors also facilitate and assist in developing a positive peer culture with the guidance ... Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly ...

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Youth counselors also facilitate and assist in developing a positive peer culture with the guidance ... Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly ...

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Youth counselors also facilitate and assist in developing a positive peer culture with the guidance ... Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsYouth Program JobsYouth Program Assistant JobsYouth Program Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Youth Program Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$20.2K

$42.9K

$59.2K

How much do youth program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth program assistant in Iowa is $42,944.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,200.00 and $44,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by youth program assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Youth Program Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing diverse group dynamics, maintaining participant engagement, and handling unexpected behavioral issues. To address these, it is helpful to establish clear expectations, use inclusive activities, and develop strong communication skills. Collaborating closely with program leaders and seeking regular feedback can also help in effectively supporting youth needs and ensuring a positive program environment.

What does a youth program assistant do?

A Youth Program Assistant supports the planning, organization, and implementation of activities for children and teenagers in various settings, such as community centers, schools, or camps. Their responsibilities often include supervising participants, assisting with educational or recreational activities, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved. They may also help with administrative tasks, such as record-keeping and communicating with parents or guardians. This role is essential for providing a positive environment that encourages youth development and engagement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth program assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Youth Program Assistant, you need a background in youth development, education, or social work, often supported by a relevant degree or experience working with children or teens. Familiarity with program management tools, safety protocols, and occasionally CPR/First Aid certification is valuable. Strong communication, patience, and organizational skills help you build rapport with youth and collaborate effectively with staff and families. These skills are crucial for creating engaging, safe, and supportive environments that foster youth growth and program success.

What is the difference between Youth Program Assistant vs Youth Counselor?

AspectYouth Program AssistantYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require relevant certificationsHigh school diploma; often requires additional counseling or youth development certifications
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, recreational facilitiesResidential programs, schools, community agencies
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, educational institutionsNonprofits, mental health agencies, juvenile programs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve working with youth, a Youth Program Assistant typically supports program operations and activities, whereas a Youth Counselor often provides direct counseling and guidance to youth in more specialized settings. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Program jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Youth Program jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Youth Program Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Youth Program Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Youth Program Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Youth Program Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Youth Program Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Youth Program Assistant job openings:

Youth Program Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Program Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,944 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

IHYC Overnight Youth Specialist- PT (55969)

Iowa Youth Services

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 15 hours ago

Job description

Come join YSS as an Youth Specialist - PT! You'll help create a safe, supportive, and stable environment where young people can rest, grow, and build independence. During your awake shifts (8:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.- 8:00 a.m.), you'll provide supervision, guidance, and crisis support while ensuring each youth's basic needs are met. Between 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., you'll remain on-site in a sleep period, available to respond to emergencies as needed.
This position has a unique schedule: Wednesday, overnight shift, 8:00 pm - 8:00 am and Friday, day shift, 9:00 am - 8:00 pm.
Through compassion, consistency, and encouragement, you'll help youth feel respected, supported, and empowered as they work toward a brighter future.
What You'll Do...
Support & Supervise Youth
  • Provide awake overnight supervision from 8:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.- 8:00 a.m., remaining on-site and available to respond to emergencies during designated sleep hours (1:00 a.m. - 6:00 a.m.).
  • Build trusting, supportive relationships while consistently enforcing program expectations, boundaries, and safety guidelines.
  • Monitor daily routines, including curfew, bedtime, wake-up, chores, personal hygiene, and visitor activity to maintain a safe, structured living environment.
  • Support youth in meeting their basic needs, including access to food, clothing, hygiene products, bedding, transportation, and other essential resources.
  • Teach and reinforce independent living skills such as budgeting, cooking, meal planning, laundry, job searching, transportation, healthy relationships, communication, problem-solving, and self-care.
  • Connect youth with community resources and assist with referrals when appropriate.

Ensure Safety & Respond to Needs
  • Conduct emergency bed intakes, urinalysis testing, and room searches as appropriate to maintain a safe, substance-free environment.
  • Respond to medical needs, administer medications as authorized, and notify on-call staff of emergencies or significant incidents.
  • Remain prepared to respond promptly to emergencies throughout the overnight shift.

Maintain the Program Environment
  • Keep the facility clean, safe, and welcoming by completing housekeeping tasks, preparing vacant units for new residents, performing laundry, and conducting routine safety inspections.
  • Identify maintenance concerns, report repair needs, and assist with inventory of household, food, and personal care supplies.

Documentation & Communication
  • Complete accurate and timely documentation, including shift logs, incident reports, medication records, and required program paperwork.
  • Assist youth with completing required assessments, applications, and other program documentation.
  • Provide phone and front desk support during non-office hours and ensure the program phone remains accessible throughout the overnight shift.
  • Participate in team meetings, supervision, and required training to support effective communication and high-quality services.

This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.
Who You Are...
You're calm under pressure, compassionate by nature, and believe every young person deserves a safe place to land. You know that the overnight hours can be some of the most important, providing stability, consistency, and reassurance when it's needed most. You're dependable, observant, and ready to step in with encouragement, guidance, or support whenever the moment calls for it.
What We Provide...
We invest in people-because when you thrive, so do the communities we serve. At YSS, you'll find meaningful work, strong support, and benefits designed for real life.
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Program
  • Personal Wellness Programs
  • Pet Insurance Discounts
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer
  • Retirement Savings Opportunities
  • Ongoing Training and Professional Development

We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a "Can Do" Spirit.
Required Qualifications - MUST HAVES:
  • High School Diploma/equivalent.
  • At least one year of experience in the human services field is required.
  • You'll be driving a YSS vehicle, so we need you to:
    • Be at least 21
    • Have a valid driver's license and a clean driving record
    • Carry insurance that meets YSS standards

Preferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:
  • Strong active listening skills with the ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Sound judgment and critical thinking skills to assess situations and make thoughtful decisions.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build rapport and share information effectively.
  • Ability to collaborate with teammates, community partners, and youth to achieve positive outcomes.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and use resources effectively.
  • Excellent time management skills with the ability to balance competing priorities and work independently.

The IDEAL Candidate
  • Is dependable, self-motivated, and great at taking initiative
  • Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
  • Brings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
  • Speaks a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).

We Celebrate Your Story...
Have you navigated recovery from addiction, mental health challenges, trauma, or housing instability? Your lived experience offers a unique, compassionate perspective that can inspire real change. By sharing your story and serving as a role model or mentor, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and families. Your journey matters. If you're ready to use it to uplift and empower others, we warmly encourage you to apply.
Who We Are...
We're YSS-one of Iowa's largest and longest-standing nonprofits dedicated to putting kids first. Our mission is simple but powerful: spark hope, create opportunity, and help young people thrive.
  • From life-changing programs to a new 50-acre recovery campus, we're expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at yss.org.
  • We value the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we're committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and succeed.
  • YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.

Stay Connected...
We communicate with applicants via email - straight from our Paycom system address: systemmessage@paycomonline.com. Please check your inbox regularly (and your spam/junk folder just in case). If the message does end up in spam/junk, make sure to add systemmessage@paycomonline.com to your list of safe senders. We may also send you texts if you give us that permission when you apply. Questions? Reach us anytime at yss@yss.org
Our Hiring Process - Here's What to Expect...
  • Apply - Submit your application at yss.org/ysscareers
  • Assessment - We review your skills and experience
  • Interview - Phone, video, or in-person conversation
  • References - We'll connect with 3+ professional references
  • Screening - Background check, driving record check, and license verification if required
  • Offer - If it's a match, you'll receive a formal offer through Paycom

Apply