Lead 4-H Youth Development Programs | Statewide Impact

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Champaign (IL); Hybrid; USD 105,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Extension is seeking an Assistant Program Leader for the 4-H Positive Youth Development initiative in Champaign, IL. The role oversees statewide 4-H programming and directs staff across 102 counties to impact nearly 260,000 youth.

This leadership position requires extensive experience in program development, strategic planning, and collaboration with university and extension teams. Hybrid work arrangements may be considered, with background checks required.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in youth development, education, social work or related field; degree must be completed by hire date.
• At least five (5) years of full-time relevant professional experience.
• Experience mentoring and supporting interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience in strategic program planning.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision to the Specialists and Associates (10 direct reports) in the Illinois State 4-H Office.
• Supervise the Events and Communications Coordinator and provide direction in the planning of key events for Illinois 4-H staff.
• Direct state program staff in developing annual plan of work and conduct annual performance appraisals; manage and support the Specialist promotional pathway process for direct reports.
• Provide professional development opportunities to staff to enhance collaboration and connection to the Illinois Extension strategic plan and National 4-H initiatives; assist in planning and leading State 4-H staff meetings.
• Collaborate with the Senior Program Leads and Managers within the State 4-H Office as a team to ensure staff development, data collection and evaluation, financial operations, human resource management, alumni engagement, and marketing/branding opportunities.

Skills

Strong communication

Relationship building

Team mentoring

Strategic program planning

Education

Master’s degree in youth development, education, social work or related field

PhD in a related field (preferred)

Job description

University of Illinois Extension is seeking an Assistant Program Leader for the 4-H Positive Youth Development initiative in Champaign, IL. The role oversees statewide 4-H programming and directs staff across 102 counties to impact nearly 260,000 youth.

This leadership position requires extensive experience in program development, strategic planning, and collaboration with university and extension teams. Hybrid work arrangements may be considered, with background checks required.