Youth Development Counselor MLK Early Childhood Center

About the Role

Join a team dedicated to helping young people grow, learn, and thrive. As a Youth Development Counselor, you will inspire children daily while building relationships with families and staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion Safety & Supervision: Ensure children are safe, engaged, and accounted for. Monitor activities, conduct headcounts, and respond to situations using YMCA policies and training.
• Guide Positive Behavior: Foster a welcoming, inclusive environment using positive behavior management techniques for social and emotional growth.
• Lead Fun & Meaningful Activities: Implement the YMCA curriculum through games, projects, and hands-on learning, adapting activities to meet diverse needs.
• Model YMCA Values: Demonstrate honesty, respect, responsibility, caring, and faith.
• Support Daily Operations: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe program space adhering to YMCA and state licensing standards.
• Build Strong Relationships: Connect with children, families, school staff, and the YMCA team to create a positive, collaborative community.
• Protect Youth: Adhere to child-protection policies, ensure proper sign-in/out procedures, and maintain vigilant supervision.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• At least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED
• Six months of experience working with youth in a licensed facility, school, church, or similar setting
• CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Abuse Prevention training (or willingness to obtain)
• Ability to plan and lead age-appropriate activities
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Ability to pass state/local background checks and fingerprinting
• TB test and any required immunizations per state/local guidelines

Skills That Help You Shine

• Clear, positive communication
• Ability to engage groups of youth
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving
• Commitment to inclusion and cultural competence
• Team-oriented mindset
• Desire to grow and help others grow

Physical & Work Environment Expectations

• Active, hands-on role involving moving, playing, and leading activities.
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Work occurs indoors and outdoors, including exposure to weather, noise, and youth program environments.
• Day Camp roles include outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and extended standing/walking.

Typical Schedule

• Before/After School Program: Part-time, Monday–Friday, typically 2:30 pm–6:30 pm (aligned with ISD calendar). Occasional Saturdays.
• Day Camp Program: Monday–Friday, 6:30 am–6:30 pm with multiple shift options (aligned with ISD breaks). Occasional Saturdays.
• Participation in family nights, staff meetings, and trainings is required with advance notice.

Why the YMCA

Join a mission-driven community that invests in your growth, offering leadership experience, professional development, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Benefits Of Working At The YMCA

• Free YMCA Membership
• Discounts on YMCA programs
• Paid training and professional development
• Leadership growth pathways
• Supportive, mission-driven team environment
• Flexible schedules
• Opportunities to make a lasting impact