Similar Positions
Oahe Family YMCA is seeking a Senior Youth Development Director to lead and grow our programs while championing the safety aof every child.
Job Description
Shape the Future of Youth in Our Community
Are you passionate about helping children thrive? Do you believe strong youth programs can transform lives, families, and communities? The Oahe Family YMCA is seeking an inspiring and dedicated Senior Youth Development Director to lead and grow our childcare and youth development programs while championing the safety and well-being of every child we serve.
This is more than a job. It is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on hundreds of children and families while developing future leaders, creating innovative programs, and helping shape the future of a thriving YMCA.
Whether your background is in education, coaching, childcare, youth development, nonprofit leadership, or community engagement, we want to hear from individuals who are ready to lead with passion, purpose, and heart.
Why Join the Oahe Family YMCA?
As a key member of our leadership team, you will:
- Lead programs that positively impact children from preschool through high school.
- Mentor and develop a dedicated team of youth development professionals.
- Drive innovation in childcare, afterschool programming, summer camps, and family engagement.
- Play a vital role in maintaining and strengthening our nationally recognized child protection standards.
- Be empowered to grow professionally through YMCA leadership development and certification opportunities.
Live and Work in Pierre, South Dakota
Located just blocks from South Dakota's State Capitol and across the street from the local high school, Pierre offers an unmatched quality of life for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Imagine leaving work and being minutes away from:
- World-class walleye fishing on the Missouri River and Lake Oahe
- Renowned pheasant and upland bird hunting
- Beautiful hiking and biking trails
- Boating, kayaking, and water recreation
- A safe, welcoming community with excellent schools and a strong sense of connection
With a population of approximately 14,000 residents, Pierre offers the perfect balance of professional opportunity, community involvement, and outdoor adventure.
Join Us in Making a Difference
At the Oahe Family YMCA, every day is an opportunity to inspire a child, strengthen a family, and build a healthier community.
If you're ready to lead with purpose, develop meaningful programs, and create lasting impact for future generations, we invite you to apply.
Apply Online Today
Application Deadline: October 22, 2026
Interviews: October 23-26 2026
Help us build a stronger community, one child at a time.
This is a full-time, exempt, benefited position. Benefits include employer paid health and dental insurance, 8% employer retirement contribution (after one year), paid time off, free YMCA membership, and program discounts.
About the Role
The Senior Youth Development Director helps advance the YMCA's mission of strengthening community through Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.
This leadership position oversees:
- Early Learning Programs
- Out-of-School Time Care
- Summer Day Camp
- Youth Sports
- Program Innovation
- Staff Training and Leadership Development
- Organization-wide Child Protection Initiatives
The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership, ensure program excellence, support staff growth, and create meaningful experiences that help young people learn, grow, and succeed.
Qualifications
Qualifications
We are looking for a motivated leader who meets at least one of the following:
- Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Services, Education, Business, or a related field; OR
- Four or more years of program management experience, preferably in a YMCA, school, childcare setting, or nonprofit organization; OR
- Three or more years of supervisory experience that includes staff leadership, budget management, marketing, public relations, and program development.
Additional Desired Qualifications:
- Proven relationship-building and collaboration skills.
- Experience leading teams and managing multiple priorities.
- Passion for youth development and community impact.
- Commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments for all children and families.
Professional Development Opportunities:
The Oahe Family YMCA is committed to investing in your success.
The selected candidate will have the opportunity to earn:
- YMCA Team Leader or Multi-Team/Branch Leader Certification
- Praesidium Guardian Certification
- CPR/AED/First Aid Certification (Required in the first 90 days)
Training and support for these certifications will be provided.
Who Thrives in This Role?
This position is ideal for someone who is:
- A teacher ready to move into leadership.
- A childcare professional seeking greater impact.
- A school administrator looking for a community-focused role.
- A coach who loves mentoring staff and youth.
- A nonprofit leader passionate about strengthening families and communities.
Essential Functions
What You'll Do
Leadership & Program Development
- Lead and support high-quality youth development programs.
- Develop innovative programs that meet community needs.
- Ensure programs remain safe, engaging, and impactful.
- Drive growth in participation and community engagement.
Child Protection & Risk Management
- Serve as the primary administrator for the YMCA's Praesidium Accreditation process.
- Champion organization-wide child protection standards and best practices.
- Ensure compliance with YMCA standards and applicable regulations.
Staff Development
- Recruit, hire, train, mentor, and evaluate staff and volunteers.
- Foster a culture of excellence, teamwork, accountability, and professional growth.
- Build future YMCA leaders through coaching and development.
Financial & Operational Leadership
- Develop and manage departmental budgets.
- Collaborate on marketing and promotional efforts.
- Ensure facilities, resources, and operations support exceptional program delivery.
Community Impact
- Build meaningful relationships with schools, community organizations, and families.
- Support fundraising initiatives and volunteer engagement.
- Represent the YMCA as a trusted community leader and advocate for youth.