Theater Arts/Performing Arts Specialist – Afterschool Program

New York Junior Tennis & Learning•New York, NY

15h•$22 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Theater Arts/Performing Arts Specialist plans and facilitates engaging performing arts programming for middle school students in grades 6–8. The specialist introduces students to theater and performance, including acting, improvisation, script development, stage presence, character development, voice projection, and storytelling. Through rehearsals, original productions, and live performances, students develop performance abilities, build confidence, collaborate with peers, and explore creative expression. The specialist encourages students to take creative ownership and participate in showcases, plays, and program events. The position serves NYJTL afterschool program sites in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. Openings vary across more than 30 sites throughout the school year. The role is scheduled Monday through Friday between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM, with start and end times varying by site, for up to 20 hours per week. Availability during these hours is required. Selected candidates are expected to work through the full school year ending June 2027. The position is part-time, and some school holidays, meetings, training, and special events may also require attendance. NYJTL is a nonprofit youth tennis and education organization that serves children across New York City. Its mission is to develop young people’s character through tennis and education, supporting lifelong success on and off the court. Its community tennis and afterschool programs are offered at no cost to participants.

Requirements

Availability Monday through Friday during after-school hours, 2:00 PM–6:00 PM, for up to 20 hours per week, not including meetings, during the school year and some school holidays.
At least 2 years of experience working with children or youth in group settings such as after-school, camp, school, or recreational programs.
Demonstrated experience in theater, acting, performing arts, drama, or a related field.
Strong knowledge of theater techniques, performance, and production practices.
Ability to develop engaging, age-appropriate theater lessons and activities.
Strong communication, classroom management, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to motivate students and build confidence in young performers.
Comfort leading rehearsals, directing performances, and coordinating showcases.
Dependability, professionalism, patience, and enthusiasm.
High school diploma or GED.
Ability to pass required background checks and comply with program policies and safety requirements.
Commitment to work the full school year through June 2027.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with middle school or adolescent youth.
College degree, theater training, certification, or equivalent experience.
Some college coursework or a degree in Education, Arts, Recreation, Youth Development, or a related field.
Experience in a DYCD-funded program or NYC after-school setting.
Bilingual language skills.

Responsibilities

Plan and facilitate structured theater lessons, acting workshops, and performance activities.
Introduce students to acting techniques, improvisation, storytelling, character development, and stage presence.
Teach foundational performance skills, including voice projection, movement, expression, and public speaking.
Guide students in script reading, creative writing, scene development, and original play creation.
Provide opportunities for students to explore directing, stage management, set design, and production roles.
Develop rehearsals and prepare students for performances, plays, showcases, and special events.
Encourage confidence, creativity, collaboration, communication, and positive self-expression.
Create opportunities for students to take leadership roles in productions and creative projects.
Maintain a structured, safe, and supportive environment for students with varying experience levels.
Maintain accurate attendance and program documentation as required.
Complete 15 hours of professional development each calendar year.
Attend required meetings, training workshops, and special events, including those outside program hours.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Design and implement sequential, project-based units and lesson plans in the assigned specialty area.
Align activities with program goals, youth interests, and DYCD/COMPASS-SONYC frameworks.
Integrate social-emotional learning, teamwork, and youth leadership opportunities into activities.
Prepare materials and supplies in advance and maintain an organized, safe activity space.
Lead engaging, hands-on sessions that are inclusive and differentiated for varied skill and grade levels.
Establish clear expectations, routines, and positive behavior supports.
Build strong relationships with youth and encourage participation, creativity, and persistence.
Adapt activities based on student responses, behavior, and feedback.
Collaborate with Group Leaders, Tutors, and site leadership to coordinate schedules and support youth needs.
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and planning sessions.
Share progress, challenges, and recommendations for program improvement with supervisors.
Ensure youth safety and supervision at all times, following agency and DYCD policies.
Assist with attendance, sign-in/out, and other basic documentation as required.
Care for and inventory program equipment and supplies related to the specialty area.