Youth Development Professional (Seasonal/Summer) - YDP

Description Youth Development Professional - Seasonal (YDP) We are seeking dedicated and engaging Youth Development Professionals to support and implement high-quality programs over the summer that prepare young people for success in life. This role involves working directly with youth in assigned grade groups (K–1st, 2nd–3rd, 4th–5th, 6th-7th, 8th-12th) to create a safe, supportive, and enriching environment.

Position Details

Part-time position (25 hours per week) 5 hours per day, Monday–Friday Scheduled hours may vary between 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM depending on program location and shift Must be available to work a consistent full 5-hour shift each day Starting wage: $15.00 per hour Key Responsibilities: Plan and facilitate age-appropriate programs focused on three core areas: Healthy Habits, Character & Leadership, and Academic Success Develop and lead creative, engaging, and educational activities that promote personal growth and life skills Build positive relationships with youth and serve as a mentor and role model Support youth in developing appropriate emotional regulation skills, particularly when responding to behavioral challenges related to stress, trauma, or other factors Maintain a safe and structured environment by setting clear expectations and consistently enforcing program guidelines Supervise youth at all times, including during field trips, special events, and daily programming Ensure member safety and complete daily operational tasks, including attendance tracking, headcounts, and required reporting Desired Skills and Abilities: Ability to effectively work with, care for, and earn the respect of children and adolescents Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with management, staff, parents/guardians, and community partners Strong teamwork skills with the ability to collaborate in a team-oriented environment Ability to assess situations, problem-solve, and work effectively under pressure while meeting deadlines Ability to understand and follow instructions, policies, and procedures with minimal supervision

Requirements

Preferred Qualifications

and Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with children and adolescents in a group setting Completion of at least two (2) years of post-secondary education in a Human Services-related field Bachelor’s degree or higher in a Human Services-related field (preferred) Residence within a 45-minute commuting distance of Fort Wayne, IN Required Qualifications and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age High school diploma or GED required (original documentation must be provided) Legally authorized to work in the United States Ability to perform basic arithmetic and demonstrate reading comprehension at a high school level Valid Indiana driver’s license required Reliable transportation to and from work (personal vehicle preferred) Ability to pass all pre-employment screenings, including criminal fingerprint background check, 10-panel drug screen, sex offender registry check, and Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) check Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing using standard English Physical Requirements: Ability to work in varying indoor and outdoor conditions, including inclement weather Ability to move across a variety of surfaces and environments Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 25 pounds for a distance of at least 20 feet Ability to climb stairs and remain physically active throughout the workday Adequate vision, hearing, and speech capabilities to ensure effective supervision of youth Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation Interested in both seasonal and ongoing opportunities? We encourage you to apply and indicate your availability.