Director of Youth Engagement

City of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

2d

About The Position

The Director of Youth Engagement leads efforts to bridge generational divides, enhance communication between the youth and city government, and empower young residents to become active leaders in their communities. This role is pivotal in fostering collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity within city governance while equipping youth with the skills and opportunities to shape their futures and contribute to the well-being of the city.

Requirements

• Understanding of developmental stages, needs, and challenges faced by youth, including issues related to identity, education, employment, mental health, and civic engagement.
• Knowledge of community organizing principles, participatory approaches, and strategies for engaging diverse stakeholders, including youth, families, schools, nonprofits, and local businesses.
• Familiarity with local government structures, functions, and decision-making processes, as well as relevant policies, laws, and regulations impacting youth services, programs, and initiatives.
• Understanding of leadership theories, practices, and competencies, including communication skills, problem-solving abilities, emotional intelligence, and ethical decision-making.
• Awareness of social justice issues, systemic inequities, and disparities affecting youth, with a commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of youth engagement work.
• Proficiency in data collection methods, survey design, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and program evaluation techniques to assess the effectiveness and impact of youth engagement initiatives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate ideas clearly, listen actively, and adapt communication styles to engage diverse audiences, including youth, parents, educators, and policymakers.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust, establish rapport, and foster positive relationships with youth, community partners, city officials, and other stakeholders through collaborative and inclusive approaches.
• Skill in designing, implementing, and evaluating youth-centered programs, events, and activities that promote leadership development, civic participation, community service, and social-emotional learning.
• Ability to facilitate group discussions, workshops, and training sessions for youth and adults, creating safe and inclusive spaces for dialogue, learning, and skill-building around civic engagement and social change.
• Capacity to develop and implement strategic plans, goals, and objectives for youth engagement initiatives, aligning activities with organizational priorities, community needs, and desired outcomes.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex issues, identify root causes, and develop innovative solutions in collaboration with youth and community stakeholders.
• Proficiency in project planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline management to ensure the successful execution of youth engagement initiatives within established deadlines and budget constraints.
• Ability to empathize with the experiences, perspectives, and aspirations of youth from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and demographic backgrounds, demonstrating cultural humility and sensitivity in all interactions.
• Capacity to adapt to changing circumstances, priorities, and stakeholder needs with resilience and creativity, adjusting strategies and approaches as necessary to achieve desired outcomes.
• Aptitude for generating new ideas, approaches, and solutions to address complex challenges and opportunities facing youth and the community, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Skill in building and sustaining effective partnerships, coalitions, and networks with internal and external stakeholders, leveraging collective expertise, resources, and influence to advance shared goals and objectives.
• Ability to advocate for the needs and interests of youth, using persuasive communication, evidence-based arguments, and storytelling to mobilize support, build consensus, and effect positive change at the policy and systemic levels.
• Capacity to maintain personal well-being, manage stress, and cope with challenges inherent in youth engagement work, practicing self-care, seeking support, and prioritizing health and balance in work and life.
• Bachelor's degree in public administration, education, youth development, social work, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in youth development, community engagement, or related fields, with demonstrated leadership and project management skills.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree preferred.
• Any additional education and experience may substitute for the bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives to engage youth in city governance, including identifying barriers to participation, setting goals, and establishing measurable outcomes to gauge success.
• Build relationships with youth-serving organizations, local school districts, community groups, and other stakeholders to promote youth engagement opportunities and gather input on issues affecting young residents.
• Design and oversee programs, events, and initiatives aimed at empowering youth, fostering leadership skills, and providing opportunities for civic involvement, volunteerism, and community service.
• Advocate for policies and programs that address the needs and concerns of youth, ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes at the local level. Collaborate with city officials, elected leaders, and advocacy groups to prioritize youth-friendly policies and initiatives.
• Develop educational resources, workshops, and training sessions to equip youth with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage in civic activities, understand government processes, and advocate for change.
• Provide guidance and support to youth advisory boards, councils, and committees, facilitating meaningful participation, promoting diversity and inclusion, and amplifying youth perspectives in city governance.
• Conduct research, surveys, and assessments to better understand the needs, interests, and priorities of youth in the community. Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and improve the effectiveness of youth engagement efforts.
• Cultivate partnerships with City departments, local businesses, nonprofits, academic institutions, local school districts and government agencies to leverage resources, expand programming, and create opportunities for collaboration on youth-related initiatives.

Benefits

• Unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.
• 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Eligibility into the discounted medical plan through our wellness program.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous retirement savings options.
• Eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• Access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships (10% to 40% savings) with partner colleges and universities, extending to spouse and dependents in some cases.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director