Elkhart Youth Development Professional

Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County • Elkhart, IN

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County is seeking energetic and dependable individuals to work directly with middle and high school students in their teen programs. This role involves building meaningful connections, encouraging young people, and making a positive difference in the community. The Teen Youth Development Professional creates a safe, welcoming, and engaging Club experience by providing active supervision, positive role modeling, mentoring, and support for teen-specific programs. Successful candidates will be adept at connecting with teens, meeting them at their level, setting boundaries, and encouraging participation, growth, and development into confident young adults.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Demonstrated ability to work with school-age youth (ages 5-18).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to follow direction and work as part of a team.
• Positive attitude, reliability, and willingness to learn.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting up to 20 lbs and extended periods of standing or sitting.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual Preferred

Responsibilities

• Build positive, supportive relationships with middle and high school members.
• Actively engage teens in conversation, activities, and Club programs.
• Serve as a positive role model and trusted adult while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Encourage teens to explore their interests, develop new skills, and take on leadership opportunities.
• Help create a Club environment where teens feel welcomed, respected, included, and excited to participate.
• Actively supervise teen members and maintain awareness of program spaces and activities.
• Establish and reinforce clear, consistent behavioral expectations.
• Use positive, age-appropriate guidance and redirection when challenges arise.
• Monitor program spaces and promptly report safety concerns or incidents.
• Follow all Club supervision, safety, and emergency procedures.
• Assist Lead Youth Development Professionals and Program Supervisors with teen-focused programs and activities.
• Support the setup, facilitation, and cleanup of daily programming.
• Encourage participation in activities related to recreation, leadership, education, career readiness, life skills, health and wellness, and other teen interests.
• Bring energy and enthusiasm to programs while encouraging teens to contribute their own ideas and interests.
• Follow established schedules, routines, and program plans.
• Model respectful, responsible, and positive behavior at all times.
• Encourage healthy decision-making, accountability, and positive peer relationships.
• Help teens navigate conflict and challenges in a constructive way.
• Reinforce character, leadership, and Club values through everyday interactions.
• Work collaboratively with other Club staff to create a consistent and positive experience for members.
• Help maintain clean, organized, and safe program spaces.
• Support proper use, storage, and care of equipment and supplies.
• Assist with transitions between activities and program areas.
• Ensure program areas are left ready for the next activity or group.

What This Job Offers

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