Activity Specialist 21st Century

pii; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

pii is seeking an Activity Specialist to facilitate engaging youth programs in Chicago, Illinois. You will work closely with the Program Coordinator to ensure youth members are safely engaged in activities that promote academic success, good character, and healthy lifestyles.

The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, energy, and a passion for youth development. Responsibilities include program delivery, supervision, and compliance with safety guidelines to create a fun and enriching environment.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of group dynamics and behavior management techniques.
• Strong listening and verbal skills.
• Ability to maintain high energy and flexibility in an active environment.

Responsibilities

• Deliver and facilitate youth programs in various engaging activities.
• Serve as a constructive role model and mentor to participants.
• Maintain safety and compliance with health guidelines.

Skills

Youth Development Knowledge

Effective Communication

Energy & Adaptability

Problem Solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Enrollment in or completion of college coursework in Education or related fields

Job description

Position Summary

The Activity Specialist is responsible for the direct, high- energy delivery and implementation of youth programs across ULBGC’s core areas of focus. Working closely with the Program Coordinator, the Activity Specialist ensures youth members are safely engaged in structured, enriching, and fun activities designed to promote three main pillars: Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles.

Primary Responsibilities & Duties

• Program Delivery & Facilitation
• Curriculum Implementation: Execute pre-designed program activities and evidence-based curricula in specific areas (e.g., homework help, sports clinics, arts and crafts, or STEM modules).
• Engagement: Actively promote, stimulate, and maintain a high level of interest and participation among youth members.
• Specialized Support: (If assigned to a specialty track like STEM) Identify youth interests, guide hands-on experiential learning, and help build 21st-century skills utilizing specialized tools or technology.
• Youth Supervision & Safety
• General Supervision: Assist the Program Coordinator in supervising all program spaces (classrooms, gym, computer labs, outdoor areas) to ensure general safety and discipline.
• Guidance & Mentorship: Serve as a constructive role model, offering positive mentorship, coaching, and behavioral guidance to participants.
• Compliance: Adhere strictly to the health, physical, and emotional safety guidelines outlined by the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), CDC, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), and ULBGC.
• Administrative & Operations Support
• Record Keeping: Gather and track member attendance, program participation logs, and activity metrics as required by program funders (DFSS/21st CCLC).
• Inventory Management: Organize, maintain, and safely store program supplies, technology, and recreation equipment.
• Event Execution: Provide hands-on assistance in planning and executing special organizational events (e.g., Youth of the Month/Year awards, science fairs, sports leagues, and the annual Gala).
• Area Maintenance: Ensure program areas are left clean, structured, and organized at the conclusion of each day.

Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Youth Development Knowledge: Basic understanding of group dynamics, behavior management techniques, and adolescent development.
• Effective Communication: Strong listening and verbal skills; ability to give clear instructions to children and constructive feedback to supervisors.
• Energy & Adaptability: Ability to maintain a high level of physical energy and flexibility in an active, changing environment.
• Problem Solving: Sound decision-making skills; ability to troubleshoot minor behavior or activity issues and appropriately escalation major concerns to the Coordinator or Club Director.

Education And Experience Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent is required. Enrollment in or completion of college coursework (in Education, Social Work, Recreation, STEM, or Human Services) is strongly preferred.
• Experience: Previous experience working or volunteering with youth (ages 6–18), preferably within urban, diverse, or under-resourced community settings.
• Clearance: Must successfully pass a strict background check and a drug screening.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Must be able to move and walk around frequently, actively participating in recreational or athletic activities alongside youth.
• Must be comfortable transitioning materials and youth between school environments and the club premises.
• Flexible schedule tailored around after-school hours, school holidays, or summer camp hours.