Education Inclusion Specialist - Salem YMCA

YMCA OF THE NORTH SHORE INC • Salem, MA

7d • $58,000 - $62,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Salem YMCA is seeking a compassionate and experienced Full-Time Inclusion Specialist to support children, families, and staff across our Early Learning, onsite Out-of-School Time (OST), and onsite Summer Camp programs. This role plays an important part in creating welcoming and inclusive environments where children of all abilities can participate, build confidence, and succeed. The Inclusion Specialist works closely with program staff, families, school partners, and community resources to provide guidance, coaching, and individualized support strategies that promote positive experiences for every child.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
• Experience supporting children throughout the preschool and school-age years is required.
• Knowledge of child development, social-emotional learning, positive behavior support, and inclusive practices.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with children, families, staff, schools, and community partners.
• Ability to coach and support staff in implementing individualized strategies and inclusive practices.
• A compassionate, patient, and flexible approach to working with children and families.
• Passion for inclusion, youth development, and helping children of all abilities thrive.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Special Education, or a related field.
• Previous experience working with diverse populations and building authentic relationships across backgrounds.
• Knowledge of child development, social/emotional health, and trauma-informed practices.
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and empathy when working with children, families, and staff.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in Early Learning, school-age, OST, childcare, camp, educational, or behavioral support settings preferred.
• Familiarity with IEPs, behavior plans, accommodations, and/or early intervention services preferred.
• A master's degree is preferred but not required.
• Experience working with state agencies and knowledge of local community resources for families.

Responsibilities

• Support children with varying social, emotional, behavioral, developmental, and learning needs across Early Learning, onsite OST, and onsite Summer Camp programs.
• Partner with program staff to create inclusive, supportive, and successful environments for children of all abilities.
• Observe children and help develop individualized behavior support strategies, accommodations, and proactive interventions.
• Collaborate with families, school personnel, and outside providers to promote consistency and continuity of support.
• Provide coaching and guidance to staff on behavior management, inclusion practices, child development, and social-emotional support.
• Help staff recognize behavioral trends and implement proactive strategies that promote positive outcomes.
• Support children as they transition between Early Learning, OST, and Summer Camp programming.
• Assist with staff training and family communication related to inclusion, behavior, and child development.
• Help ensure children feel safe, connected, respected, and engaged in YMCA programs.
• Promote an inclusive culture where every child is recognized for their strengths, abilities, and potential.
• Develop and successfully implement child safety and behavioral support plans.
• Provide and maintain all documentation and certifications required by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC).
• Complete all trainings, certifications, and program orientation as required by EEC and the YMCA of the North Shore.

Benefits

• FREE YMCA membership and employee discounts on programs
• Paid training and professional development opportunities
• Advancement and growth opportunities across our YMCA locations
• Health and dental insurance for eligible full-time employees
• Generous paid time off
• Retirement plan with a 12% employer contribution once vested — no employee match required
• A supportive, mission-driven team environment
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in our community

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level