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Youth Programs Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Air Force

$63K/yr

This knowledge is necessary to provide oversight and direct involvement in the Youth Activities Program, which maintains and improves the physical, social, and mental wellbeing of young children and ...

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$33K

$65.4K

$122K

How much do youth programs director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth programs director in the United States is $65,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Youth Programs Director and how can they be effectively managed?

One of the most common challenges for a Youth Programs Director is balancing administrative tasks with hands-on program development and participant engagement. Managing diverse teams of staff and volunteers, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and securing funding or resources can also be demanding. Effective management involves strong organizational skills, clear communication, and fostering a positive, collaborative environment. Staying connected with youth participants and their families helps ensure programs remain relevant and impactful, while continuous professional development supports effective leadership.

What does a Youth Programs Director do?

A Youth Programs Director is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing programs and activities designed for young people, often within organizations such as community centers, non-profits, or recreational facilities. They develop program curricula, manage budgets, hire and supervise staff, and ensure programs align with the organization’s mission and the developmental needs of youth participants. Additionally, they often collaborate with parents, schools, and other community agencies to maximize resources and participation. Their ultimate goal is to provide safe, engaging, and educational experiences that promote the social, emotional, and physical well-being of youth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Youth Programs Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Youth Programs Director, you need experience in program management, youth development, and a relevant degree such as education, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, program evaluation tools, and child protection certifications (like CPR/first aid) is often required. Leadership, strong communication, and conflict resolution skills help you effectively engage youth, guide staff, and build partnerships. These capabilities are critical for designing impactful programs, ensuring safety, and fostering positive youth outcomes.

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

AspectYouth Programs DirectorYouth Activities Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple youth programs, manages staff, develops policies, and ensures program goals are met.Plans and executes specific youth activities, manages day-to-day event logistics, and engages directly with youth participants.
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in education, recreation, or related field; experience in youth program management.High school diploma or equivalent; experience in event planning or youth engagement preferred.
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, community centers, schools, overseeing staff and programs.On-site at activity locations, direct interaction with youth, event setup and management.

The Youth Programs Director focuses on managing and developing youth programs at an organizational level, while the Youth Activities Coordinator handles the planning and execution of specific activities. Both roles require experience working with youth, but the director position involves broader oversight and strategic planning.

More about Youth Programs Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Youth Programs Director jobs? Cities with the most Youth Programs Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Programs jobs? The most popular types of Youth Programs jobs are:
What states have the most Youth Programs Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Youth Programs Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Youth Programs Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Programs Director jobs are:
Youth Programs Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Programs Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,372 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Youth Programs Director ( Full Time)

ACAC Midlothian

Midlothian, VA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description

Inspire. Lead. Play. Repeat. Are you a high-energy leader who lights up around kids, builds epic programs from the ground up, and thrives on bringing people together? We're looking for a Youth Programs Director to take our youth offerings to the next level-from After School Adventures to Summer Camp magic, Kids Nights Out, and everything in between!

This role is for someone who can juggle fun and function-creating unforgettable experiences for kids while keeping operations running like a well-oiled scooter. ??

What You'll Be Doing (a.k.a. Your Mission)

  • Be the fearless leader of all things youth: After School programs, Summer Camps, Kids Day Off, and more!
  • Hire, train, and mentor an awesome team of youth rockstars 
  • Build schedules that keep your team and programs running smoothly
  • Keep the vibe positive and the culture team-first, goal-driven, and full of energy
  • Provide regular feedback, coaching, and evaluations to help your team grow
  • Communicate like a champ-with your team, with families, and with members
  • Tackle member concerns with empathy and a can-do attitude
  • Dream up new programs that are fun, creative, and generate revenue
  • Plan and run special events that make your department (and the club) shine ??
  • Keep things clean, safe, and organized-including equipment and facilities
  • Ensure all programs meet licensing guidelines and safety standards


Full Time Team Member Benefits include

  • Paid Time Off 
  • Complementary Gym Membership      for the entire family
  • Medical, Dental & Vision      plans 
  • Voluntary Life Insurance &      Short-Term Disability coverage's
  • Supplemental Accident      &Critical Illness plans
  • Employee Discount on Personal      Training, Swim lessons, Cafe & Logo Shop Purchases, and more!

Requirements

What You Bring to the Table

  • A college degree
  • You know your way around state licensing requirements (or can learn fast)
  • Clean background check (required by social services-we take safety seriously)
  • Experience leading youth programs AND managing teams? Even better!
  • Great communicator and problem solver-parents and kids love you
  • Passion for working with children and creating a safe, supportive environment
  • Tech-savvy enough to handle scheduling, emails, and basic reporting
  • Willingness to roll up your sleeves and jump into activities or clean-up as needed

Physical Stuff

  • You're on the move-standing, walking, bending, leading activities indoors and out
  • Comfortable working in warm/humid outdoor environments (it's camp life!)
  • Flexible with your schedule-days, evenings, weekends, holidays when needed

Expectations & Culture

  • Be a team player-help out wherever needed to keep our club clean and welcoming
  • Represent the club with a positive attitude and great energy
  • Respond to messages and requests in a timely manner
  • Support our special events and club-wide initiatives (even outside your dept!)
  • Deliver 5-star service with a smile and a little sparkle ?

Why You'll Love It Here

  • You'll get to make a real impact on kids' lives-every single day
  • You'll work with a passionate team that feels more like a family
  • You'll have the creative freedom to build awesome, memorable programs
  • And yes... you'll probably learn all the latest TikTok dances (from the kids)

Affirmative Action/EEO statement

acac is an equal opportunity employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the team member for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Ready to lead with heart, build unforgettable experiences, and grow a team that loves what they do?

Apply now-your dream job might just come with a popsicle stick craft and a campfire song. ????

Apply