Program Associate Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

The School Age Program Coordinator is responsible for managing and overseeing the daily operations of the before, after, and summer program. This includes coordinating program activities, supporting program staff, and ensuring the successful implementation of grant-funded initiatives. The Coordinator plays a key role in facilitating program delivery, monitoring program effectiveness, and maintaining compliance with grant requirements.

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.

• Program Management:
  • Oversee the day-to-day operations of the before/after/summer program, ensuring smooth and efficient execution of program activities
  • Coordinate and schedule program events, activities, and sessions
  • Ensure that program activities are aligned with grant objectives and organizational goals
  • Ensure that programs are in compliance with state and local licensing and sanitation rules and regulations
• Staff Support:
  • Provide guidance and support to group leaders
  • Assist with the recruitment, training, and evaluation of group leaders
  • Conduct regular meetings with group leaders in collaboration with the Associate Regional Programming Director to address issues, provide updates, and ensure effective communication
• Supervision and Safety:
  • Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being
  • Implement and enforce program rules and procedures to maintain a positive and safe environment
  • Address any behavioral issues or conflicts promptly and effectively
  • Maintain supervision of staff and provide assistance when needed
  • Conduct regular staff meetings, one-on-one meetings, performance evaluations and provide ongoing professional development opportunities
  • Foster a positive and collaborative team environment
• Participant Engagement:
  • Develop and implement strategies to engage program participants and enhance their experience
  • Monitor participant attendance, behavior, and progress, and address any concerns as needed
  • Facilitate communication with parents and guardians regarding program activities and participant progress
• Compliance and Reporting:
  • Ensure that program operations comply with grant requirements and organizational policies
  • Prepare and submit regular reports on program activities, outcomes, and compliance to the Associate Regional Programming Director
  • Maintain accurate attendance records and submit to the Childcare Administrator as required
  • Maintain accurate records of program activities, expenditures, and participant data
  • Ensures all staff understand and volunteers understand and comply with YMCA abuse prevention policies, actively monitors staff interactions with participants, addresses boundary violations, and ensures prompt reporting of concerns in accordance with YMCA policy and state law
• Curriculum and Activity Planning:
  • Ensure proper implementation of curriculum and program activities
  • Ensure that curriculum materials and resources are available and used effectively
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of program activities and make recommendations for improvements
• Budget and Resource Management:
  • Coordinate the procurement and distribution of program supplies and resources
  • Monitor and report on resource usage to ensure cost-effective program operations
• Community and Stakeholder Relations:
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with community partners, stakeholders, and local organizations
  • Represent the program at community events and meetings to promote program visibility and engagement
  • Address any community or stakeholder concerns related to the program
  • Provide leadership and support to the site directors and site personnel in regard to the annual fundraising campaign; responsible for percentage of annual campaign support annually
  • Be a positive spokesperson, advocate, supporter, and promoter of all YMCA programs at all times

• Education and Experience:
  • Associate’s degree in Education, Youth Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field; Bachelor’s degree preferred; EDU 119 and BSAC required
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in program coordination or management, preferably in a youth development or educational setting
  • Experience with grant-funded programs and compliance is highly preferred
• Knowledge:
  • Understanding of youth development principles and best practices
  • Knowledge of grant requirements
  • Familiarity with curriculum development and program planning
• Skills:
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively
• Abilities:
  • Ability to lead and support a team of program staff
  • Ability to develop and implement program activities and curriculum
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to address challenges proactively
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Personal Attributes:
  • High level of integrity and professionalism
  • Commitment to the mission and goals of the organization
  • Enthusiasm for working with children and families
  • Proactive and solution-oriented approach

• Employee Assistance Program
• Retirement Contribution once eligible