Youth Development Professional; Seasonal​/Summer - YDP

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

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.