Position Title: Teen Development AssociateReports To: Teen Development Coordinator
Employment Type: Part-Time
Location: Multiple locations in Pittsburgh PA
Position OverviewThe Teen Development Assistant (TDA) is a support role designed to assist in the delivery of quality programming for teens aged 13–18. The assistant works under the supervision of the Teen Development Coordinator and helps create a welcoming, safe, and enriching environment for teens. This role is ideal for individuals beginning a career in youth services, education, or community engagement who are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives.
Primary Responsibilities- Program Support
- Assist in the setup, delivery, and cleanup of daily teen programs, workshops, and activities.
- Support Teen Development Coordinator during program sessions, ensuring youth are engaged and on task.
- Distribute and collect program materials, supplies, and attendance sheets.
- Assist Teen Development Coordinator with inputting attendance into YP’s current database Afterschool HQ
- Other duties as assigned by Management
- Youth Interaction
- Build positive and supportive relationships with teens, encouraging participation and leadership.
- Model appropriate behavior and communication at all times.
- Support teen behavior management in accordance with program policies and staff guidance.
- Environment & Safety
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming environment within the teen space.
- Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all participants by monitoring spaces and reporting incidents or concerns immediately.
- Follow and uphold site policies and emergency procedures.
- Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment during food service.
- Wipe down tables, counters, and food service areas before and after meal periods.
- Assist in cleaning and storing food service items after use.
- Properly dispose of food waste and trash in designated containers.
- Meal Preparation & Setup
- Assist in unpacking, organizing, and setting up preprepared meals or snacks in accordance with program schedule.
- Ensure all food items are within safe temperature ranges and properly labeled if required.
- Set up serving stations with appropriate utensils, napkins, condiments, and other necessary supplies.
- Serving Meals
- Serve meals to youth participants in an orderly and respectful manner.
- Follow portion control guidelines to ensure compliance with nutrition standards (e.g., CACFP or SFSP guidelines if applicable).
- Monitor the flow of meal distribution to avoid congestion and ensure efficient service.
- Team Collaboration
- Attend team meetings and contribute to program planning discussions.
- Communicate effectively with fellow staff regarding teen behavior, needs, or challenges.
- Support special events, trips, and outreach efforts as needed.
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Qualifications- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; college coursework in education, youth development, psychology, or a related field preferred.
- Previous experience working or volunteering with teens in a structured environment is highly desirable.
- Ability to relate effectively to diverse youth populations.
- Strong communication, teamwork, and reliability.
- Availability during afterschool hours and some evenings or weekends.
- Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation.
- Must pass background checks and complete required training certifications (e.g., State Background, FBI Fingerprints, Child Abuse, NSOR, CPR/First Aid, Mandated Reporter).
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Preferred Characteristics- Enthusiastic, patient, and youthcentered approach to work.
- Interest in youth mentorship, education, or social services.
- Familiarity with socialemotional learning, traumainformed care, or restorative practices
- Willingness to learn and grow within a supportive team environment.
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Working Conditions- Work is primarily onsite in a youth center, community location, or school.
- Must be able to move throughout the site, lift moderate materials, and engage in youth activities.
- Travel for events or field trips may be required.
- Travel required to the main office to attend team meetings and professional development sessions.
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