Youth Development Program Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview

The Activity Specialist is responsible for designing and facilitating high-quality enrichment activities that engage elementary- and middle school-aged participants through hands-on learning, creativity, leadership, physical activity, and skill development. Working under the supervision of the Program Director and Assistant Program Director, the Activity Specialist develops lesson plans and delivers specialized programming that complements the overall afterschool experience.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Reports directly to the Program Director
• Plan, prepare, and facilitate engaging enrichment activities in a specialty area such as STEM, literacy, visual arts, performing arts, sports, wellness, technology, leadership, or social-emotional learning.
• Develop weekly lesson plans aligned with program goals and participant interests.
• Prepare and maintain all materials and supplies needed for daily activities.
• Supervise participants while maintaining a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment.
• Differentiate activities to meet the developmental and learning needs of diverse participants.
• Encourage creativity, teamwork, leadership, and positive youth development through hands-on learning experiences.
• Collaborate with Youth Workers and program leadership to coordinate schedules and special events.
• Escort participants safely during transitions and educational field trips.
• Maintain attendance records and required program documentation.
• Monitor and maintain program equipment and instructional materials.
• Report accidents, illnesses, behavioral concerns, and safety issues immediately to the Program Director.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, professional development, family events, and organization-wide initiatives.
• Ensure programming complies with NYC Department of Health, DYCD, OCFS, DOE, and NIDC standards.
• Serve as a positive mentor and role model while fostering an engaging and respectful learning environment.

Qualifications and Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Education, Recreation, Fine Arts, Physical Education, Youth Development, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience facilitating enrichment programming or teaching children in an after-school, camp, school, or community-based setting.
• Demonstrated experience or expertise in a specialty content area.
• Strong classroom management and group facilitation skills.
• Excellent communication, organization, and planning abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively with school staff and program team members.
• Must be available Monday through Friday between the hours of 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM, with occasional evenings or weekends for trainings and special events.
• Must complete required annual professional development.
• Sense of humor.
• A current physical examination and TB test are required. All site-based staff must successfully complete fingerprint clearance prior to employment.

This is a part-time position with approximately 20 hours per week.

Neighborhood Initiative Development Corp. is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal,

state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. Neighborhood Initiative Development Corp. makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

We provide a broad range of youth development and family support services, including after-school programs for students in grades K-12, summer camp, a nightly teen center, and support for older youth and adults. As a staple in the community, NIDC works with tenants, landlords, precincts, schools, health centers, merchants, and elected officials to address a wide variety of issues facing the Bronx, including economic development and revitalization.