Youth Development Counselor

About the Role

Join a team that’s shaping the next generation at the YMCA. This role offers the chance to inspire children every day while building meaningful relationships with families and fellow staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion Safety & Supervision: Keep children safe, engaged, and accounted for at all times, monitoring activities and responding to situations using YMCA policies and training.
• Guide Positive Behavior: Foster a welcoming, inclusive environment using positive behavior-management techniques.
• Lead Fun & Meaningful Activities: Bring the YMCA curriculum to life 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: Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe program space.
• Build Strong Relationships: Connect with children, families, school staff, and your YMCA team.
• Protect Youth: Follow all 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

This is an active, hands-on role involving moving, playing, leading activities, and occasionally lifting up to 50 lbs. Work takes place indoors and outdoors, including exposure to weather and noise. Day Camp roles will include outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming.

Typical Schedule

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

Benefits Of Working At The YMCA

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