POSITION DETAILS:
Job Title: Program Specialist (Teen)
Status: Part Time Non-Exempt
Department: Sports and Recreation
Reports to: Sports and Recreation Director
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Program Specialist (Teen) plays a vital role in advancing the YMCAโs mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position creates a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where teens can build confidence, develop leadership skills, and feel a strong sense of belonging, guided by the YMCAโs core valuesโCaring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibilityโwe foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Foster a warm and supportive environment where youth and teens feel a sense of belonging and develop confidence through achievement.
- This role supports the supervision of youth and teen programing.
- Ensure a physically and emotionally safe learning space for all.
- Support the development and implementation of a curriculum that encourages positive development.
- Provide active supervision of participants and their engagement throughout the program.
- Build strong, positive relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open and professional communication.
- Prepare and organize materials for daily activities.
- Ensure program space and equipment are clean, organized, and safe; promptly report any safety concerns.
- Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and family engagement events.
- Model professional behavior while following YMCA policies related to confidentiality, conduct, and behavioral expectations.
- Adhere to all local, state, and YMCA policies and procedures, including ADA accommodations where appropriate.
- Model YMCA values and uses the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing.
- Support and guild other staff in demonstrating these behaviors consistently across the program.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support the program and broader YMCA mission.
YMCA COMPETENCY AREAS:
- Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Uses sound judgment to design and adapt programs that align with adolescent development, promote positive outcomes, and uphold safety standards.
- Communication & Influence: Builds trust and rapport with teens while maintaining appropriate boundaries. Communicates effectively and helps maintain a positive, collaborative program culture.
- Program/Project Management: Plans, coordinates, and delivers teen-focused programs aligned with YMCA mission and goals.
- Developing Self & Others: Serves as a positive role model for youth while supporting peer learning and promoting continued growth and development.ย
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Two years of previous experience working with youth in a developmental setting preferred.
- Associateโs degree preferred or equivalent experience.
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
- Previous experience with diverse populations.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Understands that the YMCA is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS (or willingness to obtain upon hire):
- Bloodborne Pathogens Training (or equivalent approved by the YMCA)
- Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
- Emergency Procedures Training
- CPR and First Aid Certification
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds safely and repeatedly using proper technique.
- Physically able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, sit on the floor, and move quickly to respond to children's needs.
- Participate in active play, including indoor and outdoor activities in a variety of weather conditions.
- Maintain continuous visual and auditory supervision of children in busy, dynamic environments.
- Adapt to a fast-paced, team-centered work environment with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCAโs mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.