Special Needs After School Counselor

YMCA of South Palm Beach County • Boca del Mar, FL

6d • $15 - $16 • Onsite

About The Position

The Peter Blum Family YMCA is seeking compassionate, energetic, and dependable individuals to join our Special Needs After School Program. We are hiring team members available Monday through Friday between 1:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., with flexible scheduling based on availability and program needs. As a Special Needs After School Counselor, you will create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where children and teens with diverse abilities learn, grow, build confidence, and develop meaningful relationships through recreational and educational experiences.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or the ability to obtain within YMCA-required timeframes.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Patient, compassionate, dependable, and passionate about working with children and teens.
• Ability to build positive relationships with participants, families, and staff.
• Ability to follow YMCA policies, procedures, and safety standards while exercising sound judgment.
• Ability to actively supervise children in a fast-paced environment while remaining alert and attentive at all times.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and participate in recreational activities, including lifting up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors and respond calmly and appropriately during emergencies or challenging situations.
• Must successfully complete a Level II criminal background screening.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with children in childcare, camps, schools, recreation, or youth programs is preferred, but not required.
• No prior Florida DCF Child Care certification is required. Employees who do not already possess the Florida DCF 40-Hour Introductory Child Care Training will receive support from the YMCA throughout the certification process, including payment for the required state competency examinations.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, healthy, and inclusive environment for children and teens with diverse abilities.
• Supervise participants while promoting independence, confidence, and positive social interactions.
• Adapt games, homework assistance, STEM, arts, recreation, and enrichment activities to meet individual needs and abilities.
• Use positive behavior support strategies and encourage communication, self-help, and life skills.
• Maintain attendance, required documentation, and child accountability throughout the program.
• Communicate effectively with families regarding participant successes, concerns, and daily experiences.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors and teammates to ensure appropriate accommodations for all participants.
• Report accidents, incidents, and suspected child abuse in accordance with YMCA policies and Florida licensing requirements.
• Remain knowledgeable of YMCA policies, emergency procedures, risk management practices, and Florida child care licensing standards.

Benefits

• Complimentary YMCA membership
• Flexible weekday schedule based on your availability
• Additional hours during school breaks, teacher workdays, and summer camp
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification opportunities
• A supportive, mission-driven team dedicated to serving children with diverse abilities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed