Afterschool Activity Specialist- Culinary, STE(A)M, Visual Arts, and/or Arts & Crafts/Photograp[...]

Learning through an Expanded Arts Program; New York (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

LEAP is seeking passionate, experienced Activity Specialists to lead after-school programs and summer projects in NYC partner schools. You will design and deliver arts-integrated activities across STEM, arts, and crafts, guiding students in developing creativity and leadership in supportive, inclusive environments.

Responsibilities include collaborating with staff, ensuring safety, and participating in ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience working with youth in a classroom or group setting
• Experience instructing youth in the arts
• College degree in the Arts or Education, or equivalent experience
• Familiarity with Students with Disabilities and English Language Learners
• Passion for inclusion and advocacy in the arts
• Able to pass NYS SACC clearances and background checks including work physical and TB
• Pre-employment screening is required
• LEAP is an equal opportunity employer

Responsibilities

• Develop age- and skill-appropriate activities that fuse the arts and academics
• Engage participants to develop artistic, educational, and leadership skills
• Ensure safety and policy compliance across programs
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and events to improve knowledge and skills

Skills

Creativity

Communication

Collaboration

Planning

Safety awareness

Education

College degree in the Arts or Education

Job description

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday (2:00pm-5:30pm)- See below for more info

Weekly Hours/ Week : 17.50

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Hourly Range : $22-30 (commensurate with experience)

Why You’ll Love Working at LEAP

At LEAP, we don’t just build great programs — we build a great place to work. You’ll thrive here if you’re excited to be part of a mission-driven, people-centered, and joy-filled team.

We are:

Community-oriented, believing in a shared moral responsibility

Creative, flexible, and open-minded Collaborative and mission driven Accountable to ourselves, each other, and our goals

Committed to feedback and clear, consistent communication Champions of a compassionate and inclusive culture

Supporters of self-care and the well-being of others And above all… FUN!

At LEAP, you’ll be empowered to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact — all while being part of a community that values who you are and what you bring.

About the Role

We are seeking passionate, experienced Activity Specialists with a vested interest in arts and academic integration for long term teaching opportunities at our partner schools in all five boroughs. Activity specialists must have demonstrated previous experience in their trained specialty, ideally in NYC public school settings. We are seeking educators who share our belief in the power of experiential learning. LEAP Activity Specialists act as the lead instructors in LEAP after school programs. If you love working with children in the Arts, then this a great opportunity to share your passion for the Arts in our afterschool programs, summer programs and special projects in various areas.

Specialty Area(s) & Work Schedule :

• Culinary (4d x week Mon-Thurs)
• STE(A)M (5d x week)
• Crafts/Photography (3d x week Mon-Thurs-Fri)
• Visual Arts (3d x week Mon-Wed-Thurs)

What You’ll Do

Work with program staff to prepare & develop age, and skill appropriate specialized activities (STEM, dance, visual arts, etc.) that fuse the arts & academics

Engage participants in developing their artistic, educational, & leadership skills

Work with program leaders, school administrators, and various staff to ensure the safety & security of all participants and that all policies are being complied with

Attend staff meetings, professional development opportunities, training sessions, & special events to enhance knowledge & skills, as required, inclusive of those outside program hours

What You’ll Bring

We seek a creative and engaging activity specialist with experience leading structured activities in areas like sports, arts, or STEM, who can foster a positive, inclusive environment while developing students’ skills.

Core Competencies & Strengths :

Expertise in a Specialized Area : Ability to develop & deliver age-appropriate, hand-on, and interactive activities & lesson plans; Strong knowledge & passion in area of expertise

Child Development & Behavior Management : Understanding of child development stages & the diverse needs of students; effective classroom management & behavioral management skills; ability to implement positive reinforcement techniques & address behavioral issues with empathy & support

Communication & Collaboration : Excellent verbal & written communication skills; ability to build & maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders, departments, & staff; collaborate effectively with program leaders & other staff; clear & transparent communication

Planning & Organization : Ability to develop lesson plans & organize materials needed for activities

Problem-Solving & Decision Making Skills: Ability to identify problems and make decisions in a timely manner

Safety & Supervision : Prioritizing safety, knowledge of procedures, active supervision, & emergency preparedness

Positive Role Modeling & Mentorship: Demonstrate positive behaviors & provide guidance, support, and encouragement to others; fostering personal & professional growth

Professional Development & Adaptability : Commitment to continuous learning & professional development; adaptability & flexibility to meet needs of youth.

Required Qualifications:

2 years of experience working with youth in a classroom or group setting

Experience successfully instructing youth in the arts

College degree in the Arts or Education, or equivalent experience

Familiarity working with Students with Disabilities and English Language Learners

Passion for inclusion and advocacy in the arts

Enjoy working with youth in a team environment

Effective writing, communication, and interpersonal skills

Must be punctual, responsible, resilient, and reliable

Self-motivated, highly efficient, and able to problem-solve

Able to pass all NYS SACC clearances and background checks inclusive of a work physical and TB

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

Pre-employment screening is required for this position, including but not limited to criminal history checks by regulating agencies as needed per placement.

WE ARE AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Please note: In accordance with organizational policy, LEAP does not sponsor individuals on O-1 visas.