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Youth Program Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Youth Advocate Programs

Assistant Director

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$51K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Assistant Director position is responsible to support the Program Director of the Maine ... Flexible Schedule Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified ...

NFI North, Inc.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Buxton, ME · On-site

$70 - $95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Program Director oversees all daily operations and helps youth transition back to family or next placement as part of the larger agency leadership team. Location: Buxton, ME. Responsibilities

NFI North

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Buxton, ME · On-site

$75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will work as part of a team to provide care and treatment interventions which in turn help the youth to transition successfully back to their family or next placement. The Program ...

NFI North

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Buxton, ME · On-site

$75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will work as part of a team to provide care and treatment interventions which in turn help the youth to transition successfully back to their family or next placement. The Program ...

LearningWorks

Construction Teacher , LearningWorks

Portland, ME · On-site

$23.08 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... with community partners Assist with lesson planning, project coordination, and program ... youth development Strong communication, mentorship, and conflict-resolution skills Ability to ...

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All JobsYouth Program JobsYouth Program Assistant JobsYouth Program Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME

Youth Program Assistant information

See Portland, ME salary details

$22K

$46.8K

$64.5K

How much do youth program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth program assistant in Portland, ME is $46,778.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,400.00 and $48,600.00 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 Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Youth Program jobs in Portland, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Youth Program Assistant jobs in Portland, ME?

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

What job categories do people searching Youth Program Assistant jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Youth Program Assistant jobs in Portland, ME are:

Youth Program Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Program Assistant job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,441 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Youth Program Assistant - School Year Positions

Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine

Portland, ME • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Locations: Portland, South Portland, Auburn & Lewiston
Schedule: Monday–Friday, approximately 2:30–6:30 p.m.
Status: Part-Time, approximately 20 hours per week
Pay Range: $17–$20 per hour, commensurate with experience

Position Summary

Join Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine and make a difference in the lives of young people every day. As a School Year Program Assistant, you will help create a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment where members in grades K–5 can learn, grow, build relationships, and have fun.

Program Assistants lead and support activities, mentor youth, and work alongside an energetic and supportive team committed to helping every Club member reach their full potential.

The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about working with young people, brings patience and positivity to their work, and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Facilitate engaging educational, enrichment, and recreational activities in program areas including STEM, Art, Leadership, Academics, Health & Wellness, Gym, and Games Room.
  • Support the delivery of high-quality youth programs using established curricula, lesson plans, and activity guidelines.
  • Build positive, supportive relationships with members and create an environment that promotes participation, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging.
  • Provide active supervision of members and use positive, developmentally appropriate behavior-management strategies.
  • Maintain a safe and welcoming environment by consistently following all Club safety policies, procedures, and youth-protection practices.
  • Work collaboratively with fellow staff to evaluate programming, share feedback, and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Assist in other program areas as needed to support daily Club operations, special events, and staff coverage.
  • Accurately track member attendance and other program information as assigned.
  • Model professionalism, respect, responsibility, and positive behavior in all interactions with members, families, colleagues, and community partners.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned to support Club programs and operations.

Qualifications

  • Experience working with youth in a recreational, educational, childcare, or community-based setting preferred.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive relationships with youth and colleagues.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Patience, empathy, good judgment, and the ability to respond professionally to challenging situations.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and adapt to changing program needs.
  • CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire.
  • Valid driver's license and excellent driving record preferred.
  • BHPs and Ed Techs are encouraged to apply.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to actively participate in youth programming and activities.
  • Ability to remain standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods throughout the workday.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds as needed.
  • Ability to move throughout Club program spaces and provide active supervision of youth.

Compensation & Benefits

  • $17–$20 per hour, commensurate with experience.
  • Maine Earned Paid Leave, up to 40 hours annually based on hours worked.
  • Supportive, collaborative, and mission-driven work environment.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine

Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine's mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Our Clubs provide safe, welcoming spaces where young people can build meaningful relationships, explore new opportunities, develop skills, and thrive.

Ready to make a difference? Join our team and help create a positive Club experience for young people across Southern Maine.