Summer Youth Development Specialist

Boys And Girls Clubs Of•Kissimmee, FL

4h•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) supports Club Leadership in providing an Outcome-Driven Club Experience in a variety of programming areas that support our Core Program Pillars, including Academic Success and Career Development, character and leadership development, health and life skills, the arts, sports, Fitness and recreation, and social-emotional Well-Being. This position works directly with youth, ensuring their safety, well-being, and development through interactive play and other activities as directed. The YDS is self-motivated, mature, energetic, and able to maintain clear and healthy boundaries with Club members, parents, staff, and volunteers; they are able to communicate and interact with youth in an age-appropriate, motivational, and positive manner. The YDS must be flexible, able to adapt to a work environment that changes often, remain calm, and solve problems in stressful situations. The YDS must anticipate and implement all elements of activities in an organized fashion.

Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required, and an associate's degree in education, youth development, or a related field is preferred.
Some experience working or volunteering with youth in an educational or development setting is preferred.
Demonstrated ability to plan, develop, and implement high-quality, age-appropriate programs for young people, emphasizing academic success, character development, and healthy lifestyles.
Strong interpersonal skills with a proven ability to motivate and inspire youth positively, creating an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
Adaptability and willingness to learn and support innovative ideas that benefit the Club and its members, showcasing flexibility in approach and mindset.
Proficiency in modeling and guiding youth through trauma-informed, strengths-based problem-solving, promoting academic and personal development.
Experience working with diverse cultures and backgrounds, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and cultural competence in program delivery and youth interactions.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with Club members, parents, staff, and community partners.
Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with Club staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders, contributing to a collaborative and supportive environment.
Basic proficiency in data collection and reporting, with the ability to track attendance, program participation, and member progress.
Commitment to ongoing professional development and willingness to participate in training opportunities to enhance skills in youth development and program implementation.
CPR and First Aid Certification preferred; willingness to obtain certification within the first 90 days of employment if not already certified.
Physically capable of performing activities and duties on-site, including lifting up to 50 pounds, standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods, bending, and reaching.
Ability to maintain a high energy level when necessary.
Visual and auditory acuity to monitor the environment, ensure safety standards are maintained, and respond to immediate safety concerns.
Ability to reach, grasp, and manipulate various supplies and tools and effectively recognize and address classroom management issues.
Physical dexterity and cognitive alertness to move safely around the classroom, monitor student activities, prepare materials, and respond promptly to member needs.
Mental resilience and the ability to stay focused and effective in a busy, sometimes noisy environment.
Capacity to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and adapt to changing daily plans and priorities with a positive response.
Ability to survey the environment and respond to safety concerns in the moment, demonstrating situational awareness and quick decision-making skills.
Operates a computer and other office productivity equipment such as a copy machine, phone, printer, tablet, and typing on a keyboard.
Maintains various equipment and supplies in diverse settings, including indoor and outdoor environments, school buildings, and youth program areas. This includes handling sports equipment, audiovisual devices, art supplies, and other youth-related support materials. Demonstrates ability to manage inventory and keep accurate records of program supplies.
Strong interpersonal skills to interact positively with volunteers, youth members, community members, parents, and other staff.
Ability to take and follow verbal directions effectively.
Capable of clear verbal communication with youth, supervisors, and other staff.
Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability in response to changing situations and requirements.
Exposure to outdoor weather conditions (occasionally).
Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
Candidates must successfully obtain and maintain a valid OCPS Vendor Badge.
Continued employment is contingent upon passing randomized drug screenings as part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.

Responsibilities

Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate activities in the assigned program area.
Ensure facilities, equipment & supplies are maintained and report any issues to the supervisor.
Review program supply inventory and request supply orders promptly.
Facilitate Club-specific and BGCA core programs as directed by the Supervisor.
Provide active and engaged presence to prepare youth for success while creating a safe and healthy Club environment that facilitates positive youth development.
Affirm positive behavior in members and deliver coaching conversations and redirection when needed.
Model and teach youth self-confidence and self-awareness while building supportive relationships.
Collect and track Club member attendance, coursework, and behavior data as needed.
Ensure a productive work environment by participating in Club staff meetings and training events.
Ensure program areas are set up and cleaned up daily.
Provide club members with a daily program agenda and participation expectations.
Ensure child and club safety guidelines are followed.
Facilitate program activities that align with BGCCF Core Program Pillars.
Manage administrative functions of program areas and assigned resources.
Ensure proper record-keeping and reporting, including activities and events conducted, breakdowns of daily participation figures, notable achievements, and any problems or issues.