Youth worker
Youth workers work with young people to support their well-being, development and participation in society. Youth worker tasks include planning and guiding various activities aimed at young people, such as hobby groups, clubs, camps and events. They support young people in their everyday lives, help them solve life challenges and guide them in making positive choices. Youth worker jobs can be found in municipalities, parishes and organisations. The profession requires good interaction and interpersonal skills as well as the ability to listen and understand the needs of young people.
In municipalities, parishes, organizations, institutions, companies, projects, and development initiatives, as well as as entrepreneurs.
Youth workers must have strong interaction skills, as the work is based on working with young people and listening to their needs. The different backgrounds and life situations of young people require an ability to understand and engage with them individually and empathetically.
Youth workers must also be effective at group counselling. They must be able to create a safe and encouraging atmosphere, in which young people can participate actively and develop. This requires creativity and planning skills, as youth workers are responsible for organising various activities, such as clubs, camps and events.
Flexibility and adaptability are important, as unexpected situations requiring a quick, constructive response may arise on the job. Youth workers must also manage crisis situations and provide conflict resolution.
In addition, the youth worker must have good organisational skills and the ability to cooperate with various stakeholders, such as parents, schools, social services and other parties working with young people. Knowledge of the development stages of young people, social legislation and youth culture is also essential for success at work. Youth workers must be reliable and responsible, as they play an important role in the lives and development of young people.
At the secondary level, one can complete the Vocational Qualification in Education and Guidance, specializing as a Youth and Community Instructor.
At a university of applied sciences, it is possible to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Humanities, Community Educator (UAS), or a Bachelor’s degree in Social Services and Health Care, Social Services (UAS).
Eligibility for the position of a Church Youth Worker is granted by completing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Services (UAS) with a specialization in church youth work at a university of applied sciences. A Bachelor’s degree in Humanities, Community Educator (UAS), can also be completed at a university of applied sciences.
Median salary
2529 €/mo
Private sector
2691 €/mo
Public sector
2514 €/mo
The data is based on the median income, meaning the amount of salary which is the middle of the salary amounts arranged in order of magnitude.
Source: Statistics Finland's structural statistics on wages and salaries