OST Group Leader - Salem YMCA
About The Position
Are you passionate about working with children and creating positive experiences that help them learn, grow, and thrive? Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in your community while building valuable leadership and youth development skills? If so, the YMCA of the North Shore may be the perfect fit for you. We are seeking enthusiastic and caring Group Leaders to join our Out-of-School-Time team in Salem. 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.
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
Nice To Haves
- 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.
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 and employee discounts on programs
- Paid training and 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
