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Youth Program Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

American Academy of Ped

Program Asst

Itasca, IL · On-site

$26.82 - $28.31/hr

Program Assistant (Grant Funded) REPORTING RELATIONSHIP ... Manager, Youth Engagement (GF) BASIC FUNCTION: Provide administrative support for youth engagement ...

The Salvation Army

Youth Mentor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.11 - $21.74/hr

Build strong, positive relationships with youth and facilitate team building between groups, giving youth a sense of dignity and belonging. * Assist Program Lead Counselors and Program Counselors ...

GENEVA PARK DISTRICT

PFP Program Assistant

Geneva, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

The Part-time Peck Farm Park Program Assistant reports to the Manager of Peck Farm Park Program ... Qualifications: 1-3 years' experience leading youth programs. Experience working in park settings ...

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All JobsYouth Program JobsYouth Program Assistant JobsYouth Program Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Youth Program Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$22.1K

$47.1K

$64.9K

How much do youth program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth program assistant in Chicago, IL is $47,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $48,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Youth Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Youth Program Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Youth Program Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Youth Program Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Youth Program Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Youth Program Assistant job openings:

Youth Program Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Program Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,100 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Youth Program Coordinator

Union League Boys and Girls Clubs

Chicago, IL • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

PRIMARY FUNCTION
The Youth Program Coordinator provides day-to-day leadership and operational supervision for an assigned age group or program area. This position supports high-quality program delivery by coordinating staff, monitoring program quality, coaching Youth
Development Professionals, reinforcing organizational expectations, and ensuring a safe, engaging environment for members.
The Coordinator serves as the primary operational leader for assigned frontline staff while partnering with the Program Director to implement Club goals, strengthen accountability, and maintain consistent program quality. The Coordinator is responsible for creating consistency across assigned staff, ensuring organizational expectations are implemented with fidelity, and serving as the first level of leadership support for Youth Development Professionals.
Key Roles (Essential Job Responsibilities)
Prepare Youth for Success
  • Deliver high-quality youth programs aligned with Youth Development Outcomes.
  • Encourage youth to participate in diverse activities and provide constructive feedback to help build skills.
  • Model positive behavior, build strong relationships with youth, and reinforce Club expectations.
  • Support program quality standards, including the 5 Key Elements for Positive Youth Development.
  • Create an inclusive, supportive, and safe environment where members feel valued and engaged.

Leadership & Operational Coordination
  • Serve as the primary on-the-floor operational leader for assigned staff and program areas supporting the daily implementation of schedules, transitions, staffing, and program operations.
  • Ensure YDPs are prepared for daily activities, including program materials, lesson plans, and room readiness.
  • Monitor program rooms throughout the day to ensure quality, safety, and adherence to Club standards. Provide real-time support to YDPs during programs, offering direction, coaching, and assistance as needed.
  • Partner with the Program Director by identifying training needs, strengths, improvement areas, and notable accomplishments of frontline staff.
  • Communicate program needs, material shortages, space concerns, and operational updates to the Program Director promptly.
  • Assist with the development and posting of daily program schedules and activity calendars.

Attendance, Data Support & Accountability (Shared)
  • Ensure accurate and timely attendance documentation by assigned staff while reinforcing accountability for Club, grant, and CCAP reporting expectations.
  • Support YDPs with attendance procedures and follow-up to reduce missing, incomplete, or inaccurate records.
  • Collaborate with the Data Compliance Coordinator to maintain strong data integrity across daily program areas.
  • Review rosters and activity logs to ensure alignment with program delivery and address recurring accuracy concerns through coaching.

Program Coordination & Operational Leadership
  • Coordinate daily programming and staff assignments to ensure high-quality, engaging experiences for members.
  • Ensure assigned Youth Development Professionals are prepared with lesson plans, materials, schedules, and resources needed for successful program delivery.
  • Monitor program implementation throughout the day and provide coaching and support to maintain program quality and consistency.
  • Support implementation of Boys & Girls Clubs priority outcomes, organizational initiatives, grant-funded programming, and special projects within assigned areas.
  • Collaborate with other Coordinators and Program Director to ensure seamless transitions, balanced staffing, and consistent member experiences across the Club.
  • Identify opportunities to improve programming, member engagement, and operational efficiency, and communicate recommendations to the Program Director.

Staff Leadership & Accountability
  • Provide day-to-day operational supervision for assigned Youth Development Professionals.
  • Establish clear performance expectations and reinforce organizational standards.
  • Conduct regular coaching and developmental conversations.
  • Observe staff performance and provide timely feedback, recognition, and corrective coaching.
  • Address day-to-day operational concerns and resolve routine issues within established guidelines, escalating significant personnel or operational matters to the Program Director.
  • Partner with the Program Director regarding staff development, training needs, and performance improvement.

Safety, Environment, & Space Readiness
  • Ensure program spaces are clean, safe, and prepared daily.
  • Assist with incident reporting and daily safety checks.
  • Support hallway flow, transitions, and multi-space movement.
  • Maintain equipment and communicate supply needs.
  • Support implementation of Club-wide initiatives, leadership priorities, and organizational improvement efforts.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Support special events, family engagement, and field trips.
  • Assist during arrival, mealtimes, transitions, and dismissal.
  • Attend required meetings and trainings.
  • Participate in weekly leadership meetings and support implementation of organizational priorities.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Club leadership.

Requirements
  • Skills/Knowledge Required
  • High School diploma or GED required; some college preferred.
  • 1-2 years' experience in youth development; Boys & Girls Clubs experience preferred.
  • Strong leadership, coaching, and youth development skills.
  • Ability to coach, supervise, and develop frontline staff while fostering a positive team culture.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Knowledge of youth behavior management and safety practices.
  • Reliable, organized, flexible, and able to problem-solve.
  • Demonstrated ability to coach, develop, and lead frontline staff.
  • Ability to make sound operational decisions in a fast-paced youth development environment.

Salary Description
$21.00

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