Afterschool Counselor II - McDowell

YMCA of Western North Carolina • Marion, NC

68d • $15 - $0 • Onsite

About The Position

The Afterschool Counselor II supervises children participating in the YMCA of Western North Carolina’s after-school program and leads activities that support their academic and social growth. The counselor uses resources provided by the Program Coordinator to introduce skills and enrich learning while fostering a safe, nurturing, inclusive environment that supports children’s individual needs.

The position is based at a McDowell County School District afterschool site. During the school year, hours are Monday through Friday, approximately 2 or 3 p.m. to 6 or 6:30 p.m., up to 20 hours per week. During school-year breaks, hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., up to 40 hours per week.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience working with children or teens required.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups from all social and economic segments of the community.
• Exceptional group management, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Oral, auditory, and written communication skills appropriate for interacting with children and adults.
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Ability to lead and participate in activities in indoor and outdoor settings.
• Ability to climb, bend, stoop, kneel, twist, reach, sit, walk, and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Finger dexterity, ability to grasp, and ability to perform repetitive motion.
• Corrected vision and hearing within the normal range, or accommodations sufficient to complete assigned tasks.
• Ability to communicate clearly through speech and understand English.
• Specific certifications and/or training may be required.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to drive a mini-bus.
• Experience in outdoor education, planning and organizing activities, crafts, songs or music, skits, sports, or recreational games.
• Multilingual ability.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety and engagement of all children in the assigned group and provide a secure, enjoyable environment.
• Offer homework support, encourage academic progress, celebrate children’s achievements, and foster a love of learning.
• Follow program lesson plans while considering each child’s physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs.
• Create a nurturing program environment that encourages exploration and positive play and embraces each child’s individuality.
• Maintain ongoing communication with the supervisor to support program participants.
• Keep accurate classroom records as assigned, comply with program standards, and respect children’s privacy and achievements.
• Communicate effectively with parents and participate in designated parent and family events.
• Model inclusive behavior and embrace diversity so every child feels valued and respected.
• Follow YMCA of Western North Carolina policies and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Implement the after-school site’s daily administrative, program-related, and supervisory responsibilities.

Benefits

• Free individual membership to all YMCA of WNC locations.
• Discounted membership for household members.
• Discounted program fees, including swim lessons, youth sports, and summer camp.
• Option to start a 403(b) smart savings account on the first day of employment and eligibility for the YMCA retirement plan.
• Professional development opportunities through local and Y-USA trainings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED