GROUP LEADER - MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AVAILABLE

Job Description

Job Description

Decatur Shelby County YMCA

Job Description

Job Title: Group Leader

Original Date: 05/14/2025

Revised Date:

Department: Afterschool

Reports To: Afterschool Coordinator

Basic Functions and Scope of Responsibility

The Group Leader is responsible for the direct supervision, safety, and engagement of a group of children in the YMCA’s afterschool program(s). This role implements developmentally appropriate activities, fosters a positive environment, and ensures compliance with YMCA and licensing standards. The Group Leader serves as a role model, building strong relationships with children, families, and team members while promoting the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Role Responsibilities

• Supervise and actively engage with a group of children in grades K–5 during afterschool program hours

• Implement daily program activities aligned with YMCA curriculum and appropriate for child development

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized program environment at all times

• Build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers through respectful and professional communication

• Support positive behavior guidance and follow YMCA policies related to health, safety, emergencies, and child protection

• Assist with arrival, dismissal, snack, and transitions between program activities

• Attend required YMCA trainings, meetings, and professional development sessions

• Complete documentation and reports as needed, including incident and attendance records

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Program Coordinator

Education, Experience & Training 

• Minimum age: 16 (18 preferred for LLEP licensing requirements)

• Previous experience working with children in out-of-school-time or similar settings preferred

• CPR, AED and First Aid certification obtained within 30 days of employment

• Completion of all required trainings and screenings for LLEP (Legally Licensed Exempt Provider) programs

• Ability to maintain energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism throughout the program day

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Commitment to creating an inclusive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for youth

Core Competencies

• Caring: Show a sincere concern for others

• Honesty: Be truthful in what you say and do

• Respect: Follow the golden rule 

• Responsibility: Be accountable for your promises and actions

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.

• Must have high level of alertness, concentration, and initiative. 

• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; occasionally stoop/bend.

• Maintain a neat and professional appearance at all times.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. The job description is not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees in the job classification. This document is not a contract and does not, in any way, alter the at-will employment relationship. 

DSYMCA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity of expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.