Director of Youth Services

ALBANY JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER INC•Albany, NY

22d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direct supervision of the Campus Director, the Director of Youth Services will be responsible for the administration and management of a variety of programs and projects. They will serve as a member of the JCC's Senior Program Staff team and functions within the framework of the agency. The Director is responsible for the strategic direction of youth programming to include but not limited to afterschool, vacation camp, and family programming. The projects for which this individual is responsible for may change based on the needs of the agency. It is expected that this staff person will serve as a catalyst, motivator and innovator of programs, and services that will cultivate relationships with families via participation at our various programs while providing the highest quality programs and services in accordance with the standards of certifying organizations. A primary function of this and every other job at the “J” is to ensure by whatever rational and legal means necessary that each member, guest and visitor leaves the “J” feeling just a little better than when they arrived.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in area of recreation or human services or related field required
Proven experience in directing youth programs
Working knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to multi-task effectively under pressure
Strong problem solving and analytical abilities
CPR/First Aid Certified

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in an area of recreation or human services or related field preferred
An understanding of Jewish life, customs and traditions is preferred

Responsibilities

Responsible for administration of all aspects of youth programming
Responsible for budget planning, development and implementation
Define goals, define and plan program to reflect each programs goals
Run the day to day operations of the programs and be responsible for all on and off site locations
Maintain and review records and evaluations of all programs, operations, staff and facilities
Manage all contractual requirements
Attend Department Directors and staff meetings
Maintain required state and local licensing/permitting for youth programs
Develop new specialty youth programming ideas and articulate vision for traditional programs
Hire, train, and supervise senior staff throughout the year
Partner with other JCC staff to ensure best practices and highest quality programming
Ensure safety and security protocols are in place and practiced
Maintain and submit appropriate records and/or reports when needed, and also explore and develop grant opportunities
Build relationships with parents and stakeholders
Plan open houses and special events
Submit required payroll information/timecards to Human Resources
Work with parents and youth to develop activities such as overnights, weekend events, after-school activities
Update website with youth programming information
Communicate with parents and establish relationships that will ensure retention with various youth programs at the JCC facility
Ensure consistency throughout the program in regards day to day operations as well as children, parent and staff interactions
Responsible for inventory of equipment at the beginning and end of programming
Recruitment of children for programming through various community fairs
Handling of recruiting, hiring, orienting, supervising and training staff
Administrative Work with Facilities staff to ensure cleanliness, safety and security at all times indoors and out
Maintain files and records of children update monthly to ensure all records up to date
Coordinate with account receivables to ensure proper registrations for and reporting of programs
Purchase food and supplies as necessary
Participate in general Center staff meetings, conferences and in-service training as requested and as needed to maintain certifications
Compliance Maintain all licensing and accreditation requirements
Ensure employee forms, certifications, medical requirements and staff training hours and records are current, complete and easily accessible for licensing review and audits
Each staff member is a Mandated Reporter for child abuse and maltreatment under OCFS
Maintain confidentiality of families, children and staff at all times.
Other Attend training sessions, open houses, fundraisers and staff meetings as may be assigned
Spearhead or assist on special projects as may be assigned
Perform other duties as assigned
Management and Supervisory In conjunction with Human Resources hire, train and supervise staff throughout the year
Ensure that staff follows appropriate dress guidelines, addressing duties, professionalism and safety
Outline and inform staff of their specific job responsibilities, as delineated in individual job descriptions
Assist staff with their strengths and help to improve their weaknesses
Identify and respond to specific needs of staff and implement plans alongside the Director to address their needs
Conduct regular meetings with the staff to discuss problems, plan activities, etc.
Observe staff interaction in activities and throughout Youth programming
Handle Disciplinary issues in the appropriate manner in conjunction with Human Resources