Youth Development Director

YMCA
Salary
$70,304.00
$73,000.00
How to Apply
Apply Online
Resumes Accepted Until
Join the leadership team in Sunny Santa Monica, CA!
Job Description

Under the direction of the Sr. Director of Youth Development, the Youth Development Director is responsible for the supervision, development, administration, management, and evaluation of the Camp, Afterschool, Family and Teen programs in accordance with the purposes, and policies of the Association. This person is responsible for creating and providing safe, quality youth and family programs and sustaining and developing relationships within the community.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Education, Child Development, or a related field.
  • Minimum 3–5 years of experience in youth development, childcare, camp, or recreation programming, including supervisory experience.
  • Proven ability to plan, implement, and evaluate programs for youth, teens, and families.
  • Experience in staff supervision, including hiring, training, coaching, and performance management.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously.
  • Experience developing and managing budgets, including monitoring revenue and expenses.
  • Demonstrated ability to build relationships with families, schools, community partners, and stakeholders.
  • Strong communication, customer service, and conflict resolution skills.
  • Proficiency in basic computer applications (Microsoft Office, email, program management systems).
  • Fundraising experience preferred.
  • CPR/AED, and First Aid Certification, must include Adult and Child/Infant, obtained within 30 days of hire and must be from one of the following certifying organizations:
    • American Red Cross
    • American Heart Association
    • American Safety & Health Institute
Essential Functions
  • Provide leadership and strategic direction for Youth Development programs, including After School Enrichment, Day Camps, Child Watch, and Youth & Family programming.
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate high-quality, safe, and engaging programs that meet YMCA standards and community needs.
  • Oversee daily operations, ensuring programs run smoothly, efficiently, and in compliance with all licensing, safety, and YMCA guidelines.
  • Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and develop staff and volunteers; foster a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven team culture.
  • Ensure proper staff-to-participant ratios, staff certifications, and completion of required trainings (CPR, First Aid, child abuse prevention, etc.).
  • Develop and manage program budgets; monitor revenue and expenses to meet financial goals.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with families, schools, and community partners to support program growth and engagement.
  • Lead planning and execution of association-wide events, including Healthy Kids Day, Spooktacular, and Winter Wonderland.
  • Promote programs through effective marketing, outreach, and community engagement strategies.
  • Ensure a safe environment by conducting regular safety checks, addressing risks, and following incident reporting procedures.
  • Monitor program quality through evaluations, surveys, and data tracking; implement improvements as needed.
  • Provide excellent customer service by addressing participant concerns promptly and professionally.
  • Collaborate with other departments to support branch and association goals.
  • Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation related to programs, staff, and participants.
  • Serve as a visible leader and representative of the YMCA mission, values, and community impact.
  • Support the YMCA’s Annual Support Campaign by actively fundraising, recruiting and engaging volunteers, and participating in campaign and community events to advance the Y’s mission.
  • Other duties as assigned.