Lead Before and After School Program Instructor and Youth Development Specialist for Elementary Age Children in a Dynamic and Inclusive Environment

Introduction to the YMCA of Greater Seattle

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals, especially the young, can develop their full potential in spirit, mind, and body. With a strong commitment to equity, the Y actively promotes a culture free from bias and injustice, ensuring that every individual feels valued, respected, and supported. As a key player in the community, the YMCA offers a wide range of programs and services designed to promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Before and After School Program Instructor to join our team at McAuliffe Elementary in Sammamish, WA. As a Lead Instructor, you will play a vital role in guiding elementary age participants through sports, arts, STEM, and other hands-on learning activities, providing a safe and caring environment that fosters social emotional learning, skill building, creative exploration, physical activity, and fun. This is a full-time onsite position, requiring a strong and diverse skillset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with children, parents, and staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and implement culturally relevant and developmentally appropriate activities within the curriculum provided by the YDCoE, ensuring that all programs are engaging, inclusive, and aligned with the YMCA's mission and values.
• Supervise a group of children to ensure their health and safety, providing a positive experience for each child and promoting social emotional learning, teamwork, and skill building.
• Provide guidance to staff/volunteers overseeing the activities of groups of children, ensuring that all programs are well-organized, safe, and fun.
• Professionally communicate day-to-day, confidential, and evaluative information with parents/guardians, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged.
• Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, and emergency procedures, ensuring that all programs are safe and compliant.
• Assist in maintaining a developmentally appropriate site, including appearance, décor, and cleanliness, ensuring that all facilities are well-maintained and welcoming.
• Prepare and serve snacks, clean snack areas, and assist with check-in and check-out procedures, ensuring that all programs are well-organized and efficient.
• Assume responsibility for program operation when DCYF designated and qualified staff is not on premises, ensuring that all programs are safe and well-supervised.
• Provide onsite support for the school-based Play Everyday Program, promoting physical activity, social emotional learning, and fun.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings as required, ensuring that all staff are well-informed, trained, and supported.

Essential Qualifications

• 18 years of age or older, with a minimum of 2 years of experience working with children in camps, child care, tutoring, or nannying.
• Ability to model and demonstrate Y values: caring, respect, responsibility, and honesty.
• Experience planning and implementing group activities, with a strong understanding of child development and youth programming.
• Completion of 12 credits of 100-level or above college-level coursework, with a GED or high school diploma.
• Certification in CPR/First Aid, TB test by Mantoux method, and Food Worker Card, with a cleared Portable Background Check in the statewide registry MERIT.

Preferred Qualifications

• 21 years of age or older, with leadership or supervisory experience (1-2 years) in a related field.
• Knowledge of and previous experience with diverse populations (language, culture, race, physical ability, sexual orientation, etc.).
• Ability to speak any language in addition to English, with a strong understanding of cultural competency and sensitivity.
• Other applicable education, training, and experience that provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with children, parents, and staff.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire others.
• Ability to think critically and creatively, with a strong understanding of child development and youth programming.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, with a strong understanding of safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

As a Lead Before and After School Program Instructor at the YMCA of Greater Seattle, you will have access to a wide range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including:

• Professional development and training opportunities, with a focus on leadership, youth development, and program management.
• Mentorship and coaching, with a strong focus on supporting your career goals and aspirations.
• Opportunities for advancement, with a clear path for career progression and professional growth.
• Access to a wide range of YMCA programs and services, including membership, childcare, and day camp programs.

Work Environment and Company Culture

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is a dynamic and inclusive organization, with a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and social responsibility. As a Lead Before and After School Program Instructor, you will be part of a vibrant and supportive team, with a focus on collaboration, communication, and community engagement. Our work environment is fast-paced and fun, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, creativity, and innovation.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary range of $22-$24.20 per hour, with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle for you and your household.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance.
• Retirement with generous employer contributions.
• Free access to mental health resources.
• Rapidly-accruing paid time off (PTO) available immediately upon hire.
• Discounts on qualifying YMCA of Greater Seattle childcare and day camp programs.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and experienced youth development professional, with a passion for working with children and families, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Lead Before and After School Program Instructor at the YMCA of Greater Seattle, you will have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of others, while developing your skills and advancing your career. Don't miss out on this opportunity to join our dynamic and inclusive team – apply now and take the first step towards a rewarding and challenging career in youth development!