OST Group Leader - Marblehead YMCA
About The Position
The YMCA of the North Shore is seeking enthusiastic and caring Group Leaders to join our Out-of-School-Time team in Marblehead. In this role, you will help create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where children can build friendships, develop confidence, and have fun before and after school. As a Group Leader, you will play an active role in planning activities, supporting children's development, and ensuring a high-quality program experience. Successful candidates are energetic, dependable, and committed to fostering a welcoming environment for children and families. This position is ideal for individuals interested in education, child development, recreation, social work, psychology, or anyone who enjoys making a positive impact in the lives of children. Join the YMCA of the North Shore and help create meaningful experiences for children every day.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required
- Must meet all licensing requirements for a Group Leader as established by the applicable licensing agency
- Demonstrated understanding of child growth and development, with the ability to apply developmentally appropriate practices when working with children
- Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills
- Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment for children and families
- Must successfully complete all required fingerprinting and background screening requirements prior to employment
- Must maintain all required documentation and certifications within the employee file as required by licensing agencies
- Must complete all required trainings, certifications, and program orientation in accordance with licensing regulations and YMCA of the North Shore standards
- Commitment to upholding YMCA policies, procedures, and core values
Responsibilities
- Support Child Development: Create a positive and inclusive environment that supports children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
- Welcome and orient children and families to the program.
- Build meaningful relationships with participants and encourage positive behavior.
- Ensure all children feel safe, valued, and included.
- Plan & Lead Activities: Develop and implement age-appropriate activities and lesson plans.
- Lead games, enrichment activities, creative projects, and group experiences.
- Adapt activities to meet the diverse needs and interests of participants.
- Provide weekly lesson plans to the Site Coordinator.
- Ensure Safety & Program Quality: Maintain active supervision of children at all times.
- Follow YMCA policies, licensing regulations, and safety procedures.
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and incidents.
- Maintain accurate attendance and program documentation.
- Communicate & Collaborate: Foster positive relationships with parents and guardians.
- Communicate important information regarding participants with the Site Coordinator.
- Work collaboratively with fellow staff members to create a successful program environment.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
- Maintain a Positive Environment: Help keep program spaces organized, safe, and welcoming.
- Monitor equipment and facilities and report any concerns to the Site Coordinator.
- Model the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility in all interactions.
Benefits
- Free YMCA membership
- Employee discounts on programs
- Paid training
- Professional development
- Opportunities for advancement across YMCA of the North Shore locations
- Retirement plan with a 12% employer contribution (once vested, no match required)
- Sick time accrual
- Supportive, mission-driven work environment
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
