Lead Youth Development Officer

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development opportunities

Leadership training

Career advancement

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Substantial annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Youth Development Officer in Cape Town. You will spearhead innovative youth empowerment programs across the Cape Town metropolitan area, designing and overseeing initiatives to improve education and employability.

The role demands a strategic, passionate leader with a strong track record in youth work and social development, capable of building partnerships with schools, government bodies, and employers while mentoring youth and staff.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent in Social Sciences, Youth Development, Education, or related field is preferred.
• 7+ years of professional youth work, program management, or community development experience.
• Leadership or supervisory experience.
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders and partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, implementation, and management of innovative youth development programs.
• Oversee program staff, volunteers, and outreach to youth aged 13–24.
• Conduct needs assessments to identify developmental gaps and support needs.
• Develop partnerships with schools, community centers, government bodies, and employers.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to youth for personal, social, and educational growth.
• Develop and manage program budgets and ensure responsible resource use.
• Monitor outcomes, collect impact data, and report to management and funders.
• Organize workshops, life-skills training, career counseling, and recreational activities.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive environment and stay current with best practices in youth development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Monitoring and evaluation

Education

Master's degree preferred

Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences or related field

Tools

Budget management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent social services agency in Cape Town, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced and passionate Lead Youth Development Officer to spearhead impactful youth empowerment programs. This senior role requires a visionary leader dedicated to fostering positive development, skill-building, and opportunities for young people across the Cape Town metropolitan area. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing a comprehensive suite of initiatives aimed at addressing youth challenges, promoting educational attainment, and enhancing employability. This position offers a significant opportunity to shape the future of young individuals and contribute meaningfully to the Western Cape community. We are looking for a dynamic individual with a proven track record in youth work and a deep commitment to social change.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and management of innovative youth development programs.


• Oversee program staff, volunteers, and outreach activities targeting youth aged 13-24.


• Conduct thorough needs assessments within youth communities to identify key developmental gaps and support requirements.


• Develop strategic partnerships with educational institutions, community centers, government bodies, and potential employers to create pathways for youth success.


• Provide mentorship, guidance, and support to young people, fostering their personal, social, and educational growth.


• Develop and manage program budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation and financial accountability.


• Monitor program outcomes, collect impact data, and prepare detailed reports for senior management and funding partners.


• Organize and facilitate youth workshops, life skills training, career counseling sessions, and recreational activities.


• Ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all program participants.


• Stay abreast of current trends and best practices in youth development and community service.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Sciences, Youth Development, Education, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.


• A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in youth work, program management, or community development, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.


• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing youth-focused programs and initiatives.


• Strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing youth in Cape Town, Western Cape.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.


• Proficiency in project management, monitoring, and evaluation techniques.


• Experience in budget management and fundraising is a plus.


• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as program needs dictate.


• A passion for youth empowerment and a commitment to social justice.


• Valid driver's license and access to reliable transport.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive remuneration package, including a strong base salary and performance-based incentives.


• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund benefits, and substantial annual leave are provided.


• Our client invests in its employees, offering significant opportunities for professional development, leadership training, and career advancement.


• You will join a supportive and collaborative team environment where your dedication to youth development in Cape Town will be recognized and valued.