Day Camp STEM Specialist - Waltham

Job Description

Job Description

Description

Organization:

The YMCA Is the nation’s leading nonprofit, committed to strengthening communities through healthy living, youth development and social responsibility. In Boston, the Y is over 150 years old, successful in empowering people of all ages to learn, grow and thrive. In neighborhoods across greater Boston, the Y is community centered and has the presence and partnerships to deliver positive change. Every day the Y’s impact is felt, whether it’s an adult who chooses a healthy lifestyle; a child who is inspired to learn a new skill or a community that comes together for the common good. The Y.   So Much More!

Position Summary:  

Under the supervision of the Camp Director, the STEM specialist provides program leadership, child development, and direct supervision to the STEM program. Responsible for developing/renewing the camp STEM program. Responsible for assisting with the implementation of a quality camp program as a whole.  Activities should provide for growth in skills, self-awareness, self-expression and group relationship building. Safety and the overall welfare of campers are of primary importance.
Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities:

• Keeps safety of campers as the first priority.  Emphasizes personal safety and emotional wellbeing with campers, parents and other camp personnel at all times.
• Creates and implements a theme related, STEM curriculum with an appropriate amount of choice. Utilizes STEM as a medium to educate and promote healthy activity. Thinks outside of the box.  
• Documents STEM curriculum and keeps examples for following years. 
• Plans and implements recreational and educational programs that emphasize group participation.
• Creates an active, engaging environment.
• By personal example, helps interpret the quality of YMCA values to campers, parents and staff. Must be a positive role model.  Develops appropriate relationships with all campers in their care. Understands, establishes, and abides by appropriate boundaries. 
• Is a staff peer leader, who sets an example for how all other staff should act and present themselves. 
• Uses positive, constructive methods of discipline/positive reinforcement, and ensures that all staff does the same. Uses specific, positive praise to reinforce and teach positive behavior.
• Communicates clearly and concisely their expectations and needs for counselors during their period. 
• Keeps a direct line of communication open with supervisors. 
• Reports all accidents/unusual incidents immediately to appropriate supervisors and creates necessary documentation.
• Communicates program information, problems, and concerns as they occur. 
• Assists with the coordination of camp activities.  Actively participates in and takes ownership of all aspects of camp program, including special events, openings, closings, and extended hours.
• Attends all staff meetings and training sessions.  Becomes familiar with provided training materials and actively incorporates them in their day today interactions and work with campers.
• Maintains and cares for all program areas and supplies. Ensures that campers treat all equipment, supplies, and camp property with respect and responsibility. Takes inventory of their supplies weekly and updates camp directors with respect to supply needs.
• Assist with pre or post care and/or transportation as assigned. Ensures that a name to face is taken before and after any transitions.
• Performs other duties as required by supervisor (remains flexible). Demonstrates a willingness to help where needed and actively seeks to develop oneself. 
• Abides by the established YMCA/DPH/ACA day camp policies, procedures, regulations, and guidelines and asks when in doubt. 
• Is available up to 40 hours per week Monday through Friday for an eight hour shift between the hours of 8am-5pm.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Position Requirements:

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must have high school diploma or equivalent; some college, and experience preferred. Achieved or working toward an education, STEM education, or a STEM degree preferred. 
• The individual should like to work with children and have the ability to work with, develop, and understand the needs of children and appropriate boundary setting.
• The individual must demonstrate a commitment to working with participants from a variety of backgrounds.
• Knowledge of group process -- must actively work in harmony with other staff.
• Must be committed to carry out YMCA mission, camp philosophy, and goals.
• Must utilize effective communication skills.
• Must possess current First Aid, Oxygen administration, and CPR certifications and all others as required by the specific camp. 

Benefits

Why work at the Y?  

The YMCA of Greater Boston is an incredible place to have a fulfilling career or enjoy part-time employment — all while we are supporting and strengthening our communities, because our community is our cause. When you join us in your career here, you can look forward to:  

• Developing your leadership skills in a caring, challenging & diverse working environment. 
• Exploring a wide range of opportunities as you learn new skills and functions. 
• Shaping the future of young children while making a difference each day for our communities and each other. 
• Engaging in YMCA career training programs and working alongside those who have the same passion. 
• A healthy work/life balance 
• Comprehensive benefits including: 
• FREE YMCA Membership for you. 
• Discount on Specialty Programs like Personal Training and Swimming Lessons. 
• Discounted or FREE family membership. 
• Robust Retirement Plan up to 10%. (see eligibility requirement) 
• Health, Dental, and Vision Benefit Package. 
• Vacation and Sick Time (PT receive sick time)