Programs Associate Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. As a global movement and the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job-we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community. At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation's most pressing social issues.

Our Organizational Culture

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals.

Position Summary

The Before School Program Leader provides meaningful opportunities for youth in YMCA programs at local elementary and middle schools. They work under the supervision of Program Site Coordinators and Directors and are expected to demonstrate flexibility, initiative, and punctuality, with a commitment to the school-year schedule.

Job Responsibilities

Curriculum Development & Program Delivery

• Develop and implement engaging, inclusive, and theme-based curricula tailored to the developmental and cultural needs of youth.

• Lead academic enrichment sessions, tutoring, and organized outdoor recreational activities.

• Collaborate with staff, parents, and participants to plan program activities.

Supervision & Safety

• Supervise and support groups of up to 20 students, ensuring safety and compliance with YMCA and child-safe protocols.

• Monitor participants, respond swiftly to critical incidents, and enforce safety regulations.

Record-Keeping & Compliance

• Maintain accurate program records, including attendance, emergency information, and safety logs.

Communication & Engagement

• Communicate respectfully with participants, parents, staff, and volunteers.

Training & Development

• Complete required safety and program training before the first shift and attend all mandatory meetings and training sessions.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

The Before School Program Leader works in a dynamic environment at local elementary or middle school sites, including indoor classrooms and outdoor schoolyards. The role involves frequent standing, walking, and active participation in physical activities such as recreational sports and games. The environment can be fast-paced and loud, and the role may require occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.

Disclaimers

• Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check.

• All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties.

• This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed.

• Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.

Salary Description

The Before School Program Leader position offers a compensation range of $20.25- $22.00 per hour. This rate is based on salary benchmarking for similar roles and is aligned with grant fund approvals and requirements for the position.

The YMCA of Greater San Francisco is seeking Program Leaders at the following sites:

Mission Branch - Harvey Milk Elementary School

Richmond Branch - Claire Lillentahl Elementary School

Richmond Branch - Sutro Elementary School

Qualifications

• 18+ for elementary programs

• Associate's degree or higher, or High School diploma/equivalent with one of the following:

• 48+ completed college units (verified by transcript),

• Passing score on the CA Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST), or

• Passing score on a District Instructional Aide Exam (provided after screening)
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Knowledge of youth development principles.
• Available Monday-Friday during program hours (~6:30-9:30 am).
• TB Test clearance within last 2 years (required for programs on school district sites, details on how to obtain will be provided).

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in child development or related field.

• Experience working with elementary or middle school-aged youth.

• Bilingual skills in Spanish or other languages preferred but not required.

• Knowledge of arts, dance, drama, sports, or other enrichment areas.