Teen Engagement Specialist

YMCA of Honolulu • Honolulu, HI

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Engagement Specialist is responsible for ensuring the design, development, and implementation of student centered clubs/programs at the assigned site, while working with youth in our public schools. The Engagement Specialist will work with the program participants and YMCA leadership, to provide after-school activities infusing youth-voice and inclusion through activities such sports, leadership, e-sports, gardening, STEM, etc. Teen interests must drive activity and club choice. The Engagement Specialist may collaborate with and recruit community members/organizations to support student interest areas. Engagement Specialists must provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment consistent with the program model and goals and ensure the success of students.

Requirements

• 6 months or more experience facilitating instruction with an emphasis on youth requiring academic intervention.
• Skilled in general youth programs group or classroom management.
• Ability to take initiative in implementing engaging academic activities and promote healthy studying habits.
• Must be able to acquire the knowledge necessary for the age-appropriate curriculum specific to assigned subject in accordance to HIDOE standards.
• Customer service oriented with strong interpersonal skills, well organized and multi-tasked oriented.
• Understanding of working with teens, group management, and group work.
• Experience engaging middle and high school youth in recreation, leadership development, service learning, civic engagement, college and career pathways, and other personal development areas.
• Exercise mature judgment and sound decision-making.
• Possess a collaborative and flexible mindset that elevates youth voice and provide opportunities in areas where the candidate may not have expertise.
• Lead by example, serve as a model of professionalism and competency for peers and employees.
• Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• Experience teaching and facilitating academic instruction required.
• Strong communication and organizational skills required.
• CPR, AED, and First Aid certified (training available upon hire).

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Office, Windows 10 and above, Canva, preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field preferred.
• Current certification in language arts or mathematics education is preferred.
• General office operations experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic support to students in assigned subject areas, using strategies aligned with the school's in-class instruction methods, while integrating creativity and fun to keep students motivated and engaged in this voluntary program.
• Create and implement innovative methods to engage students in academic enrichment to promote positive learning habits and target academic learning loss.
• Create a positive work/learning environment for staff and program participants that encourages hard work, effective communication, and a sense of comradery.
• Develop and implement fun and engaging lesson plans and educational activities that promote academic success and align with the program model and goals.
• Support ongoing program improvement efforts to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all participants, promoting personal growth, community engagement, and creating a welcoming, fun environment that encourages teens to return.
• Communicate effectively, consistently, and professionally with participants, parents, co-workers, and others associated with the program such as HIDOE and DHS contacts.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, providing excellent communication and customer service.
• Assist in the supervision and guidance of junior staff members, providing mentorship and support as needed.
• Research and develop new creative programs, workshops, activities, and engagement methods to enhance the overall program that focuses on Teen Development.
• Contribute to the development of our program by suggesting new ideas, participating in staff meetings, and providing feedback on program improvements.
• Assist with the coordination of events and activities that promote student engagement and motivation.
• Facilitates programming that invites exploration, promotes positive play, and welcomes teens in an all-inclusive environment.
• Demonstrates a working knowledge of YMCA mission, core values, purpose and goals, policies, and YMCA standards; ensures the program meets the highest standards of excellence.

Benefits

• Free Y membership with employment
• Referral bonuses - Y employees can earn cash or Y credit bonuses for referring a new hire
• Up to 60% discounts for yourself, family, and even your siblings on Y programs, camps, preschool, childcare, and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level