Art Activity Specialist: Afterschool Enrichment

YMCA of the USA; New York (NY); On-site; USD 21,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

The Harlem YMCA is seeking an Activity Specialist to lead afterschool art programs and holiday camps. You will design a comprehensive art curriculum, deliver engaging lessons, and ensure a safe, inclusive environment for school-age children.

Under supervision, you will prepare materials, facilitate daily activities, assess progress, and help showcase students’ work. Strong communication and teamwork with staff, parents, and partners are essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; college credits in related field preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in art programming.
• Direct experience working with children under 13.
• Content expert in the designated subject matter.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.

Responsibilities

• Design a comprehensive art curriculum using detailed lesson plans with clear, measurable goals and objectives tailored to stimulate interest and engagement across various grade levels.
• Ensure all lessons are project-based where possible, encouraging hands-on learning and creative application of art principles.
• Plan, facilitate, and supervise art-based activities, ensuring a safe and creative environment for youth.
• Support the Program Director in securing all necessary materials, equipment, and potential technological needs.
• Plan for all logistical and safety considerations inherent in art projects.
• Include scalable activities and modifications to accommodate varying skill levels and learning paces among participants.

Skills

Art programming

Direct experience with children under

Content expert in art

Interpersonal skills

Leadership

Diversity & inclusion

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

College credits in related field preferred

Tools

MS Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

The Harlem YMCA is seeking an Activity Specialist to lead afterschool art programs and holiday camps. You will design a comprehensive art curriculum, deliver engaging lessons, and ensure a safe, inclusive environment for school-age children.

Under supervision, you will prepare materials, facilitate daily activities, assess progress, and help showcase students’ work. Strong communication and teamwork with staff, parents, and partners are essential.