Youth specialists work in variety of settings including parks, summer camps and urban playgrounds. They provide supervision, instruction or guidance in programs designed for children and adolescents. Some jobs entail care-giving to youth with mental health or behavioral issues. However, most youth specialist work revolves around recreational programs and various types of mentoring.

Tasks:

1. To enforce safety, health and other rules.
2. In event of an accident, the worker administers first aid and calls emergency medical personnel.
3. Organizes, leads and secures participation in programs and activities.
4. Other typical responsibilities include explaining arts, crafts, sports, camping or hobbies to children or teens and showing them how to use related materials and equipment.

Key skills for a youth matters specialist:

• Sociability
• High sense of responsibility
• Diversity
• Tolerance
• Good communication and presenting skills

Average salary (2014):

The United Kingdom: £25,000 a year
The United States of America: $37,000 a year
Australia: AU$40,000 a year

Qualifications and training required:

Educational requirements vary widely and depend on the particular job. Experience and competence may matter more than a degree in cases where the primary function of the specialist is to supervise a specific activity or demonstrate a skill. Of course, ability to work well with children and teens tops the list of necessary characteristics, as does willingness to supervise carefully and enforce safety rules. Education in child development, first aid and CPR may be helpful.