Assistant Program Director - Queens, NY Copy

Harrimanprograms; New York, Northern (NY, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Harriman Program is seeking an Assistant Program Director to support the daily operations of the SONYC after-school program in Queens, NY. The role focuses on safe, engaging, and enriching experiences for middle school students, guided by the Program Director's schedule.

The ideal candidate has experience with after-school operations, DYCD/DOH mandates, and a commitment to youth development; a college degree is preferred and 30 hours of professional development annually are expected.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience working with middle school-aged youth.
• Demonstrated competency in youth development and child care practices.
• Familiarity with DYCD and DOH program mandates.
• Professional development: 30 hours annually.

Responsibilities

• Develop lesson plans and activity guides aligned with program goals and learning outcomes.
• Collaborate with Group Leaders and Activity Specialists to strengthen curriculum delivery.
• Model effective facilitation techniques and classroom management for staff.
• Assist with supervision during activities, snack/supper, transitions and dismissal.
• Mentor staff and promote teamwork, communication, and professional growth.
• Complete administrative tasks: attendance, timesheets, incident reports.

Skills

Youth development

Leadership

Classroom management

Communication

Education

College degree preferred

Job description

Assistant Program Director - Queens, NY Copy

- Monday - Friday
- per schedule assigned by the Program Director

About the Role

The Assistant Director supports the daily operations of the SONYC after-school program, ensuring a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for middle school students. This position requires a strong interest in youth development and expertise in one or more content areas that enhance the overall program experience.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of after-school program operations and the mandates of the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOH).

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Program Planning & Implementation

Develop lesson plans and activity guides that align with program goals and age-appropriate learning outcomes.

Collaborate with Group Leaders and Activity Specialists to strengthen curriculum delivery and reinforce learning.

Model effective facilitation techniques and classroom management strategies for staff.

Assist with program supervision during all activities, including snack/supper, transitions, and dismissal.

Staff Support & Development

Mentor Group Leaders to support their professional growth and prepare them for leadership or specialist roles.

Promote teamwork, collaboration, and effective communication among staff.

Attend staff meetings, training workshops, and special events as required, including those held outside regular program hours.

Youth Engagement & Safety

Ensure the safety, participation, and positive engagement of all youth during program activities.

Provide strong classroom and behavioral management to maintain a respectful and productive environment.

Supervise youth during field trips, special events, and off-site activities.

Administrative Responsibilities

Complete required administrative tasks, including attendance, timesheets, and incident reports.

Support compliance with DYCD and DOH standards and documentation requirements.

Contribute to ongoing program improvement and evaluation efforts.

Professional Development

Complete 30 hours of professional development annually.

Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, initiative, and a willingness to learn and grow in the field of youth development.

Serve as a positive role model for both staff and participants.

Qualifications

Appropriate training or certification in a specialty area; college degree preferred , but college students are welcome.

Minimum of two years of experience working with middle school-aged youth.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Exceptional group management, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution abilities.

Demonstrated competency in youth development and child care practices.

Ability to design engaging academic or enrichment activities appropriate for middle school students.

Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work collaboratively within a school or community setting.

Familiarity with DYCD and DOH program mandates.

Core Competencies

Youth Development & Engagement

Program Planning & Implementation

Cultural Competency & Inclusion

Communication & Teamwork

Professionalism & Reliability

Physical Requirements

Ability to supervise and engage in active indoor and outdoor activities with youth.

Occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.

About the Company

The Harriman Program is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, promotion, termination, compensation, benefits, and training. The Harriman Program makes employment decisions solely based on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. For more information, please visit harrimanprograms.org.