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Youth Program Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA

$19 - $20/hr

Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly and effectively in moments of crisis, providing reassurance and direction * Accurately complete ...

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly and effectively in moments of crisis, providing reassurance and direction * Accurately complete ...

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs * Respond calmly and effectively in moments of crisis, providing reassurance and direction * Accurately complete ...

Sequel Employment Center

Youth Counselor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Our programs are designed to equip our clients with the vision, motivation, life skills, education ... Woodward Community Based Services Has Immediate Openings Part Time and Full Time Youth Counselor!

Sequel Employment Center

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

Our programs are designed to equip our clients with the vision, motivation, life skills, education ... DO YOU WANT TO MAKE AN IMPACT ON THE LIVES OF YOUTH? WOODWARD ACADEMY MAY BE THE PLACE FOR YOU!

Tanager Place

Youth Service Worker

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

As a Youth Service Worker at Tanager, you won't just have a job - you'll have a purpose. Every ... 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

As a Youth Service Worker at Tanager, you won't just have a job -- you'll have a purpose. Every ... 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

As a Youth Service Worker at Tanager, you won't just have a job -- you'll have a purpose. Every ... 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 Mornings

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

As a Youth Service Worker at Tanager, you won't just have a job -- you'll have a purpose. Every ... 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 Jobs in Iowa

Youth Program information

See Iowa salary details

$21.6K

$50.8K

$91.6K

How much do youth program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth program 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 is a youth program?

Youth programs are organized activities and initiatives designed to support the development, education, and well-being of young people, typically ranging from childhood through adolescence. These programs can include after-school clubs, sports, mentorship, leadership training, community service, and arts initiatives. Their primary goal is to help youth build life skills, foster positive relationships, and provide safe and supportive environments for growth. Youth programs are often run by schools, community organizations, or non-profits, and may focus on social, academic, or recreational objectives.

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

To thrive as a Youth Program Coordinator, you need a background in education, social work, or a related field, along with experience in youth development and program management. Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Office, online collaboration platforms, and state-mandated child safety certifications is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help build trust with youth and effectively manage diverse groups. These skills ensure safe, engaging, and impactful programs that foster positive youth development.

What are some typical challenges faced when working in a youth program role, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Youth Program roles often encounter challenges such as engaging diverse groups of young participants, managing behavioral issues, and coordinating activities that meet varying developmental needs. Effective communication, adaptability, and strong organizational skills are essential for addressing these challenges. Building rapport, setting clear expectations, and collaborating closely with colleagues, parents, and community partners can greatly enhance program outcomes and create a supportive environment for youth development.

What is the difference between Youth Program vs Youth Counselor?

AspectYouth ProgramYouth Counselor
CredentialsVaries; often requires background in education or social workTypically requires a degree in social work, psychology, or related field; certifications may be needed
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, non-profits, campsSchools, community centers, residential facilities
Employer & IndustryNon-profits, government agencies, educational institutionsSchools, youth organizations, social service agencies
Job FocusProgram development, planning, and management for youth activitiesDirect counseling, mentoring, and supporting youth

While both roles focus on youth, Youth Programs involve designing and managing activities and initiatives for youth development, whereas Youth Counselors provide direct support, guidance, and counseling to individual youth. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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 jobs in Iowa?

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

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

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

Youth Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Program 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.

IHYC Overnight Youth Specialist- PT (55969)

Iowa Youth Services

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 7 days 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