Youth Programs Afterschool Class Instructor (2026-27)

Schnitzer Family Campus - Mittleman Jewish Community Center & Portland Jewish Academy•Portland, OR

5d•$30 - $40•Onsite

About The Position

The Mittleman Jewish Community Center (MJCC) is hiring instructors for two distinct afterschool youth program roles serving children ages 6–12. The Youth Programs Class Instructor leads structured, engaging one-hour enrichment classes twice weekly, with a focus on chess and/or interactive STEM topics such as robotics, coding basics, science experiments, or strategic tabletop gaming. The Youth Programs Sports Instructor coaches and facilitates physical activity classes twice weekly in the gymnasium and indoor Sportsplex, focusing on soccer and another sport such as flag football, dodgeball, or multi-sport skills. Instructors provide age-appropriate instruction, follow or develop structured lesson plans, prepare and put away materials and equipment, and maintain active supervision throughout class. They encourage inclusive participation at varied skill levels, prioritize safety and enjoyment, communicate with participants’ guardians, enforce applicable program policies, and keep the Manager informed about program needs and changes. The schedule is 3:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, depending on class offering. The work takes place indoors at a busy community center, including activity rooms, a full-size gymnasium, and indoor Sportsplex turf. The environment may include noise, active crowds, and varying indoor temperatures. The MJCC describes its workplace as a fun, team-oriented environment serving a diverse range of staff and members. Employees receive a free membership and program discounts and are encouraged to use the center’s facilities and programs.

Requirements

Demonstrated proficiency in chess strategies or hands-on experience facilitating elementary STEM activities such as robotics, coding, or science projects, for the STEM/Chess focus.
Demonstrated soccer coaching or playing experience and proficiency in another youth sport, such as basketball, flag football, volleyball, or multi-sport skills, for the Sports focus.
Documented experience developing program curriculum, teaching, coaching, or supervising children ages 6–12 in a school, camp, or recreational setting, with a record of positive, engaging management techniques.
Current First Aid and CPR certifications, or ability to obtain them upon hire.
Ability to maintain active supervision, proactive situational awareness, and strict adherence to safety protocols.
Excellent interpersonal skills for engaging with youth, communicating with parents or guardians, and collaborating with a diverse staff team.
Punctuality, sound decision-making within the scope of authority, and ability to work independently to carry out structured lesson plans.
For the Youth Sports Instructor role, ability to participate in high-energy sports and activities, including running, jumping, bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and demonstrating athletic techniques.
Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds unassisted to set up, break down, and transport equipment and materials.
Ability to remain on one’s feet for up to 2.5 consecutive hours while maintaining visual and auditory surveillance.
Sufficient near and far visual acuity to monitor groups across large areas, and clear hearing and speaking abilities to communicate and give instructions.

Responsibilities

Provide instruction and begin and end classes as scheduled.
Deliver instruction appropriate to the assigned class topic and encourage children to participate at their ability level, with an emphasis on safety and enjoyment.
Follow or develop structured lesson plans relevant to chess/STEM or soccer/sports classes.
Prepare equipment, games, and materials before class.
Return materials to their proper storage area, restore the activity area after class, and secure the area before leaving.
Maintain active supervision and a watchful eye throughout the class period.
Promote inclusive participation adapted to varying skill levels.
Provide customer service and general information to participants’ guardians, answering questions and addressing concerns within the scope of authority.
Keep the Manager informed of program needs, questions, and changes, and enforce program policies within the scope of authority.
For sports classes, actively participate in physical activities and demonstrate proper form, techniques, and safe equipment use.
Set up, break down, and transport athletic equipment and class materials as needed.