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

Youth Director

Great Lakes, IL · On-site

$83K/yr

Knowledge of the principles of child and youth development and in designing and managing an exceptionally complex program that includes, but is not limited to safety, security, disease prevention ...

Youth Director

Great Lakes, IL · On-site

$83K/yr

Knowledge of the principles of child and youth development and in designing and managing an exceptionally complex program that includes, but is not limited to safety, security, disease prevention ...

Youth Program Therapist

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

Provides individual, group, and family therapy and case management as needed according to ... Recognizes that duties include evaluating youth in crisis (danger to self/others); * Specialized ...

Youth Program Therapist

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

Provides individual, group, and family therapy and case management as needed according to ... Recognizes that duties include evaluating youth in crisis (danger to self/others); * Specialized ...

Youth Program Therapist

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

Provides individual, group, and family therapy and case management as needed according to ... Recognizes that duties include evaluating youth in crisis (danger to self/others); * Specialized ...

CYOC Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Position Summary The CYOC Program Manager will lead the implementation of the Community Youth Opportunity Collaborative (CYOC), serving as the primary convener and coordinator of a network of youth ...

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Youth Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.8K

$161.9K

How much do youth program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth program manager in Chicago, IL is $110,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $136,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a youth program manager do?

A Youth Program Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing programs and activities designed for young people. They work with staff and community partners to develop engaging and effective programs that support youth development, education, and well-being. Their duties often include supervising program staff, managing budgets, evaluating program effectiveness, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Youth Program Managers play a key role in creating safe, inclusive environments where youth can learn new skills and build positive relationships.

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

To thrive as a Youth Program Manager, you need strong organizational skills, experience in youth development, and typically a bachelor's degree in education, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with program management software, budgeting tools, and child safety protocols is highly valuable. Exceptional communication, leadership, and conflict resolution skills help you engage youth and collaborate with staff, families, and community partners. These skills ensure programs are effectively managed, safe, and impactful for participants’ growth and development.

What are some common challenges youth program managers face when coordinating multiple programs simultaneously?

Youth Program Managers often juggle several initiatives at once, which can make time management and resource allocation challenging. Balancing the unique needs of each program, ensuring consistent communication among staff, and meeting reporting deadlines are frequent hurdles. Effective delegation, clear prioritization, and regular team check-ins can help address these challenges and ensure each program runs smoothly. Additionally, building strong relationships with community partners and adapting quickly to changing youth needs are essential to success in this role.

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

AspectYouth Program ManagerYouth Activities Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple youth programs, manages staff, develops policiesPlans and executes specific youth activities and events
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in education, social work, or related field; experience in youth servicesHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience in event planning or youth activities
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, non-profit organizationsRecreation centers, schools, youth clubs
FocusProgram development, management, and supervisionActivity planning and direct youth engagement

The Youth Program Manager typically oversees multiple youth programs, focusing on management and development, while the Youth Activities Coordinator concentrates on planning and executing specific activities. Both roles require experience working with youth and are common in community and non-profit settings, but the Program Manager has broader responsibilities and strategic oversight.

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 Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Youth Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,787 per year, or $53.3 per hour.

Social Emotional Learning Youth Program Specialist

Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois

Elgin, IL

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description

Role Overview: Why This Role Exists

The Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Youth Program Specialist will fulfill the responsibilities and deliverables outlined in the Elgin Township School-Based Mental Health Grant. The Specialist will work closely with the Director of Emotional Well-Being, Mental Health Program Manager, Site-based Operations team members, U-46 school district partners, Family Services Association, and the Elgin Township Mental Health Board.  


Key Responsibilities


Daily On-Site Duties

  • Display and review daily schedules with staff and members 
  • Provide clear instructions, set expectations, and encourage participation 
  • Promote member engagement and regroup members as needed for activities 
  • Ensure program areas are clean, organized, and safe 
  • Take attendance for each program and organize records for entry into?MyClubHub 
  • Take photos of member participation at least weekly 
  • Highlight member achievements in program areas and displays 
  • Communicate professionally via walkie-talkie and during interactions 
  • Support Youth Program Quality Assessment (YPQA) and other evaluation processes 
  • Perform other duties as assigned 

Classroom & Behavior Support

  • Conduct emotional check-ins for all youth 
  • Support emotional regulation and de-escalation of activated youth as needed  
  • Communicate evolving youth needs with Mental Health Program Manager 
  • Complete Behavior Support Plans as appropriate 

Program Planning & Implementation

  • Lead and support activities across program areas (education, arts, sports, STEM, etc.) 
  • Plan and facilitate weekly Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programming with all youth in alignment with curriculum standards 
  • Monitor?supplies and communicate needs to the Site Coordinator and Mental Health Program Manager? 

Organizational & External Partnership

  • Review needs of students with operations staff and Mental Health Program Manager 
  • Supervise and guide teen mentors to grow and evolve as leaders 
  • Maintain on-site point-of-contact responsibilities for Family Service Association  
  • Support Family Service Association weekly group sessions with classroom & behavior support 

Who Thrives in This Role

  • Exceptional skills in the areas of organization, attention to detail, time management, leadership, and ability to manage multiple tasks, define and set priorities and problem-solve. 
  • Exhibit professionalism and integrity through superior written and verbal communication skills 
  • Ability to take the initiative with projects to work independently and in a team. 
  • A personal mission, vision, and values that align with Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois 
  • Ability to train, supervise and motivate staff. 

Requirements

Qualifications

  • High School diploma or higher. 
  • Experience working with kids or teens is preferred. 
  • Prior management experience is preferred. 
  • Prior grant experience is a plus. 
  • Program and curriculum planning experience is preferred. 
  • Must have a valid driver's license. 
  • Bilingual preferredÂ