Youth Development Professional

Role Overview

As a Youth Development Professional, you will plan, run, supervise, and assess activities within a designated program area such as academics, social recreation, arts and crafts, or physical education. The role focuses on building a safe, engaging, and positive environment where young members can learn, participate, and grow.

Core Responsibilities

• Support young people in building confidence and setting them up for success.
• Create a setting that encourages positive youth development outcomes.
• Encourage strong participation in club programs and activities.
• Enroll new members and guide them through the club orientation process while serving as a positive role model.
• Ensure all activities are delivered professionally and align with Boys & Girls Club values and philosophy.
• Offer consistent support to youth and their families.
• Deliver and oversee programs, services, and activities for drop-in members and visitors.
• Track and review activities to maintain safety, program quality, and a clean, well-kept branch environment.
• Prepare regular activity reports.
• Plan daily and weekly youth activities in advance, including rotating schedules with varied learning-based activities.
• Help create new, enjoyable, and educational activities for youth.
• Support the planning and delivery of quarterly activities, special events, parent nights, and similar programs.
• Assist with coordination of BGCA national programs such as Youth of the Month, Youth of the Year, S.M.A.R.T. Moves, and incentive programs.
• Build effective communication with members, parents, teachers, school staff, police, community leaders, and supervisors.
• Take part in weekly branch staff meetings to support a productive work environment.
• Help enforce safety procedures related to participant wellbeing, risk management, and building security.
• Assist in maintaining club facilities and overall appearance.
• Manage minor youth conflicts as they arise during programs.
• Support special events and programs when needed.
• Carry out ERC pick-up and drop-off using the club van as required.
• Pick up and deliver evening dinner for the Teen Center each day.
• Lead and supervise gym-based activities.
• Complete other assigned duties as needed.

Relationships

Internal: You will work closely and regularly with club staff, volunteers, members, and your supervisor to share information, discuss issues, explain procedures, and provide guidance.

External: You may also interact with community organizations, schools, parents, and other external contacts to help address concerns and resolve issues.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Prior experience working with children is necessary.
• Working knowledge of youth development is expected.
• You should be able to motivate young people and handle behavior-related challenges.
• Comfort working with the general public is important.
• You must be able to plan and deliver high-quality programs for youth.
• You should be able to organize and supervise members in a safe environment.
• CPR and First Aid certification is mandatory, though it can be obtained through the club.
• A valid state driver’s license is recommended.
• Strong technology skills are needed.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

The position requires supervising large groups of children and coordinating their activities. Most of the shift is spent on your feet, and occasional moderate lifting will be expected.

Selection Process

Reference checks are part of the initial hiring process in line with the organization’s policy for selecting and retaining staff and volunteers.

Compensation and Benefits

The pay range for this role is $20 to $21 per hour, depending on experience. Additional benefits include a pension plan after eligibility requirements are met, paid sick time, and training and development opportunities.