WHO WE ARE

GLSEN is the leading LGBTQ+ organization working on K-12 education issues. GLSEN is a multi-racial intergenerational network working nationally and locally to transform K-12 educational systems and democracy in the United States. GLSEN works to build safe and affirming learning environments for LGBTQ+ youth while advancing racial, gender, and disability justice in education settings. Our vision is for students to be able to learn and for teachers to be able to teach. Schools must be places of liberation where young people thrive and reach their full potential and every student completes their education ready to build a multi-racial democracy. To learn more about us, visit https://www.glsen.org/

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Youth Initiatives Manager leads GLSEN’s national youth initiatives, including the National Student Council (NSC) and Shimmer Program. This role drives implementation of GLSEN’s Youth Engagement Model to strengthen student leadership, organizing, and advocacy across K-12 education. Key responsibilities include managing youth communications, coordinating events and trainings, developing resources, and supporting student participation in campaigns. The Manager also tracks program impact and builds strong relationships with youth, Chapter leads, and staff.
This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who thrives in building programs and infrastructure from the ground up. The role will require creativity, initiative, and strategic thinking to design systems, resources, and experiences that empower youth and leave a lasting impact. The ideal candidate brings experience in youth development, program management, facilitation, and student organizing, along with a strong commitment to equity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and education justice.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated experience developing and managing youth programs with a broad, strategic perspective; ideally at the regional or national level.
• Five or more years of direct work experience in youth development.
• Experience working with youth organizers a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field (such as social work, youth development, education, public health, and counseling) a plus.
• At least three years of project or program management and logistics coordination, with a demonstrated ability to oversee complex initiatives from planning through execution, is a must.
• Two or more years of facilitation or training experience, designing and delivering engaging, effective sessions for diverse audiences, is a must.
• Three or more years of experience in K–12 student organizing and/or advocacy, with a deep understanding of the issues facing young people in educational settings.
• Proficient in using Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive), Zoom, and Discord, is required.
• Familiarity with presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides).
• Knowledge of project management tools such as Asana, is a plus.
• Demonstrated success in cultivating and sustaining relationships that advance program goals and foster trust across diverse groups.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of youth development principles, best practices, and pedagogy.
• Knowledge of the U.S. education system and current LGBTQ+ issues in schools.
• Commitment to social justice and knowledge of anti-oppression/anti-racist work.
• Proven ability to manage time efficiently and support multiple projects at once.
• Exceptional attention to detail and consistency in follow-up.
• Working knowledge of social media and constituent database software.
• Willingness to travel domestically, as needed, for special events.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends to support special meetings or events.

HOW TO APPLY?

To apply, please click HERE. When applying, upload and submit your resume outlining relevant experience plus a brief cover letter explaining your and why you are interested in this role.
GLSEN is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our employees.
The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor