Lead Youth Development Professional

Lead Youth Development Professional

The Lead Youth Development Professional is responsible for planning, preparing, and implementing developmentally appropriate programs and activities for youth members of the Club. The Lead Youth Development professional assists the Lead Program Coordinator in ensuring programs are delivered to members in the areas of Academic Success, Health & Well-Being, Character & Leadership, and Life & Workforce Readiness. The Lead Youth Development Professional assists with the set-up of program activities and services for the day. The Lead Youth Development Professional ensures the emotional and physical safety of groups of a minimum of 15 youth members, developing healthy and supportive relationships with all Club members and modeling Academic Success, Health & Well-being, Character & Leadership, and Life & Workforce Readiness with youth. Lead Youth Development Professionals are responsible for delivering the optimal Club experience for all members and serve as a model for Youth Development Professionals focusing on the mission and core values of BGCCVA. This position reports to the Unit Director.

Position Description:

• Create an environment that facilitates the achievement of priority outcomes (Health & Well-being, Character & Leadership, Academic Success, and Life & Workforce Readiness).
• Actively facilitate programs and activities indoors and outdoors with a minimum of 15 members ranging from ages 5-18.
• Implement Weikart strategies into program service delivery.
• Participate in BGCCVA Youth Program Quality Internal Assessment Team.
• Assist with set-up of program service including snack/meals, and special activities as designated by Unit Director, Lead Program Coordinator, or Teen Program Coordinator.
• Assist Lead Program Coordinator with onboarding new Lead Youth Development Professionals including acclimation to the Club, program schedule, and relationship building with members.
• Provide appropriate supervision by being vigilant of members in program area and monitoring equipment and supplies.
• Set clear boundaries with members by enforcing Club rules and policies and ensuring compliance while fostering an inclusive environment.
• Enforce all safety precautions and ensure that equipment is maintained appropriately.
• Continually monitor and supervise the safety and behavior of members.
• Report concerns related to the members, families, staff, or facilities to the Unit Director or Lead Program Coordinator.
• Maintain positive relationships with members and their guardians.
• Mediate mild to medium behavioral issues with confidence while providing guidance and role modeling.
• Participate in special programs and/or events as requested.
• Oversee clean-up and ensure a clean and safe area at the end of snack and mealtimes.
• Create and support opportunities, systems, and expectations that promote a human-centered organizational culture.
• Participate in regular professional development as required by the organization.
• Drive Club vehicles as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Prior experience directing and supervising large groups of youth in organized activities preferred
• Strong oral and written communication
• Demonstrated ability to work with young people, parents, and community members
• Ability to motivate youth in a consistent and constructive manner while maintaining a positive environment

Education and Certifications:

• Must be 18 years or older
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• College degree preferred, ideally with a focus on education or youth development
• 1-2 years as a Youth Development Professional or similar role preferred
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred, or willingness to obtain
• Valid Driver's license preferred

Physical Requirements and Work Conditions:

• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Exposure to indoor and outdoor work environments
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to be effective in an environment with varying levels of noise throughout the day
• Ability to maintain both visual and auditory supervision of youth members