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Youth Program Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Direct care duties include supervising and supporting youth during daily activities to observe or ... Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly ...

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Direct care duties include supervising and supporting youth during daily activities to observe or ... Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly ...

Tanager Place

Youth Service Worker

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... direct care services that are: * Client-centered * Strengths-based * Professional and compassionate ... Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Work-Life Balance: 10 paid holidays, Compassionate Leave ...

Polk County

YOUTH SERVICES WORKER

Des Moines, IA

$64K/yr

Youth Service Workers are mainly responsible for direct care of youth and security/safety of the ... share program information, coordinate services, and resolve problems. Dispenses medication and ...

Polk County, IA

YOUTH SERVICES WORKER

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$64K/yr

Youth Service Workers are mainly responsible for direct care of youth and security/safety of the ... share program information, coordinate services, and resolve problems. * Dispenses medication and ...

TANAGER PLACE

Youth Service Worker

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... direct care services that are: * Client-centered * Strengths-based * Professional and compassionate ... Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Work-Life Balance: 10 paid holidays, Compassionate Leave ...

TANAGER PLACE

Youth Service Worker

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... direct care services that are: * Client-centered * Strengths-based * Professional and compassionate ... Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Work-Life Balance: 10 paid holidays, Compassionate Leave ...

TANAGER PLACE

Youth Service Worker - Overnight

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

... direct care services that are: * Client-centered * Strengths-based * Professional and compassionate ... Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Work-Life Balance: 10 paid holidays, Compassionate Leave ...

TANAGER PLACE

Youth Service Worker Mornings

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

... direct care services that are: * Client-centered * Strengths-based * Professional and compassionate ... Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Work-Life Balance: 10 paid holidays, Compassionate Leave ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsYouth Program JobsYouth Program Director JobsYouth Program Director Jobs in Iowa

Youth Program Director information

See Iowa salary details

$21.6K

$50.8K

$91.6K

How much do youth program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth program director in Iowa is $50,848.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $60,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a youth program director do?

A Youth Program Director is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing programs and activities designed for children and teenagers. They manage staff, develop educational or recreational initiatives, and ensure that programs meet the needs and interests of the youth they serve. Additionally, they often handle budgeting, fundraising, and community outreach to support program goals. Their role is vital in providing safe, engaging, and enriching environments where young people can learn and grow.

What does a youth program director do?

A youth program director oversees a program that advocates for children within the community. Youth programs exist within social services organizations, community outreach groups, school districts, and municipalities. Your responsibilities in this career primarily revolve around developing the program, creating activities and events for the children in the program, and providing leadership to other staff members. These programs generally have some volunteer members and some paid members. Volunteers often work to mentor children, while paid members are more likely to work with the community to advocate for children.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth program director?

To thrive as a Youth Program Director, you need experience in youth development, program management, and typically a degree in education, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, scheduling platforms, and child safety protocols is often required. Strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills help in building relationships with youth, staff, and community partners. These abilities ensure safe, engaging, and effective programs that positively impact young people's lives.

What are some common challenges youth program directors face when managing multiple programs simultaneously?

Youth Program Directors often juggle various programs with different objectives, timelines, and participant needs. One common challenge is balancing administrative tasks, such as budgeting and reporting, with hands-on leadership and direct engagement with staff and youth. Effective time management, clear communication, and the ability to delegate responsibilities are key to ensuring all programs run smoothly. Collaborating with community partners, addressing unexpected issues, and maintaining program quality can also be demanding but are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Youth Program Director vs Youth Activities Coordinator?

AspectYouth Program DirectorYouth Activities Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple youth programs, manages staff, develops policiesPlans and executes specific youth activities and events
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in education, recreation, or related field; experience in youth program managementOften a high school diploma or associate degree; experience in activity planning
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, community centers, schoolsRecreation centers, camps, after-school programs

The Youth Program Director generally has broader responsibilities, overseeing entire youth programs and staff, while the Youth Activities Coordinator focuses on planning and executing specific activities. Both roles require relevant experience, but the director position often demands more leadership and management skills.

More about Youth Program Director jobs

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 Director jobs in Iowa?

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

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

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

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

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

Youth Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Program Director job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,848 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Youth Counselor

Woodward Academy

Woodward, IA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Youth Counselor Make a Difference Every Day
Location: On-site in Woodward, Iowa - Full-Time Only Available
$1,000 Sign-On Bonus
About the Role
The Youth Counselor's primary function is to provide direct care and supervision of Woodward Academy's youth. Direct care duties include supervising and supporting youth during daily activities to observe or effect changes in their social behavior and maintain the safety of youth and teammates on and off campus. You will work with middle- and high-school-aged youth to stimulate interest and cooperation in individual and group activities. Youth counselors participate in the treatment of individual youths through observation, interaction, assessment, limit setting, and implementation and communication of treatment goals and treatment progress. Youth counselors also facilitate and assist in developing a positive peer culture with the guidance of the Group Leader. This entry-level position offers opportunities for advancement and leadership across the organization, including supervisory positions, case management, and more.
Pay & Benefits
Full-Time: $19.00-$20.00/hour
Training: Fully paid; all safety and skill-based training provided
Full-Time schedules start at:
  • 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM - Including weekends

Join Our Team
Are you someone who thrives on teamwork, leads with empathy, and believes in the power of positive influence? Join a mission-driven organization where collaboration, support, and growth are at the heart of what we do. As a Youth Counselor, you'll help create a safe, engaging, and empowering environment for youth to build confidence, life skills, and brighter futures.
What You'll Do
  • Build strong, positive relationships with youth through daily interactions and structured activities
  • Model teamwork, accountability, and respect to encourage positive behaviors
  • Collaborate with peers to maintain a supportive and safe environment
  • Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs
  • Respond calmly and effectively in moments of crisis, providing reassurance and direction
  • Accurately complete required reports and documentation to support ongoing care

What You Bring and requirements
  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • A team-focused mindset and strong communication skills
  • The ability to stay calm and confident in challenging situations
  • Must be able to read, write, hear and speak in English
  • Reliable transportation to the worksite
  • Ability to pass a full background check, including fingerprinting
  • Emotionally and physically able to perform physical escorts and/or restraints of the students to ensure a safe and secure environment

Full-Time Employee Benefits
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement program
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Tuition reimbursement and student loan assistance
  • Paid time off, holiday pay, and your birthday off (paid)
  • Additional 4 weeks paid leave after 7 years of service and every 5 years thereafter
  • Free on-site meals and 24/7 gym access
  • Wellness Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Parental leave
  • DailyPay - Access your earnings before payday
  • Coaching opportunities
  • Housing assistance available
  • Supplemental insurance
  • Years of service recognition

Why You'll Love It Here
You won't do this work alone. You'll be part of a trauma responsive team that is supportive, hands-on that celebrates wins, backs each other up, and works together to change lives for the better.
Salary Description
Hourly $19-$20

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