Battle Creek Youth Program Specialist

Grand Valley State University; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition waiver

Retirement contributions

Health insurance

Wellness resources

Job summary

Grand Valley State University in Battle Creek is seeking a programs director to develop and oversee summer camps, after-school activities, and the 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU initiative. You will lead curriculum design, staffing, and partnerships to support student growth.

The role requires a bachelor's degree in education or related field, 3+ years in youth program development, and strong collaboration across school districts and university units.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Youth Development, or related field required.
• Minimum of three years in educational program development or youth programs.
• Experience coordinating summer camps and after-school programs preferred.
• Ability to work with diverse populations in Battle Creek area.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee summer camp programs with schedules and activities.
• Recruit, train, and supervise staff and volunteers.
• Ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
• Develop after-school programs and manage logistics.
• Coordinate with schools, partners, and university units.
• Monitor program outcomes and maintain records.
• Seek funding through grants and partnerships.
• Promote programs to maximize community engagement.

Skills

Organizational & project management

Exceptional communication & Interper..

Experience with K-12 students

Partnership building with community

Grant writing & fundraising

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education, Youth Development, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

This position is responsible for developing and overseeing summer camps, after-school programs, and other activities for K-12 students in the Battle Creek area, as well as overseeing the 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU program. This role requires a passionate individual dedicated to creating engaging and educational programs that support students' academic and personal growth.

Salary & Benefits

Minimum starting salary of $60,000, commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.

Primary Duties

• Development of Summer Camps
  • Design and implement engaging and educational summer camp programs for K-12 students, creating comprehensive schedules, lesson plans, and activities.
  • Recruit, train, and supervise camp staff and volunteers, ensuring a high-quality, safe, and enjoyable camp experience.
  • Ensure all summer camp programs comply with relevant safety and health regulations, maintaining a secure environment for all participants.
• After-School Program Development
  • Develop and oversee after-school programs tailored to the diverse interests and needs of K-12 students, providing enriching and supportive environments.
  • Manage program logistics, including location(s), transportation, and materials, to ensure seamless operations.
  • Collaborate with local organizations and community partners to enhance program offerings and provide comprehensive support to students.
  • Track attendance and assess the impact of after-school programs on student development, using findings to refine and improve the programs.
• 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU Program Oversight
  • Lead the 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU program in Battle Creek with a focus on addressing the unique needs of students, ensuring it aligns with educational best practices and program objectives.
  • Develop and implement a dynamic curriculum and engaging activities that support the program's goals and foster student growth.
  • Facilitate smooth program operations by coordinating with teachers, parents, school administrators, and University stakeholders, Academic Deans for college visits, admissions, financial aid, social justice centers, athletics, and other relevant units.
  • Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, using data-driven insights to implement necessary improvements and maintain records of student progress and program participation.
  • Explore and execute strategies to expand the program to additional partner schools and community organizations, enhancing the program's reach and impact.
  • Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring programs are cost-effective, sustainable, and aligned with financial goals.
  • Seek and secure funding opportunities through grants and partnerships to support and expand program initiatives.
  • Promote programs through various channels to ensure high participation rates, engaging the community and stakeholders effectively.
  • Collect and analyze data to report on program outcomes and impact, using insights to drive program enhancements and demonstrate success.
  • Foster strong, positive relationships with students, parents, school staff, and community members and organizations, creating a supportive and collaborative network.
  • Organize events and activities to showcase student achievements and program successes, highlighting the impact of the programs.
  • Serve as a liaison between the school district and community organizations, facilitating communication and cooperation to support student development and program goals.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Youth Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of dedicated experience in educational program development, youth programs, or related areas, with a proven track record of success.
• Demonstrated expertise in organizational and project management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines consistently.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities, capable of engaging effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Extensive experience working with K-12 students in educational or recreational settings, particularly in the Battle Creek area, fostering a supportive and enriching environment.
• Strong commitment to and experience in working with diverse populations, including first-generation students and low-income learners, ensuring inclusive and equitable educational opportunities.
• Strong ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders, including educators, community leaders, and parents, to achieve common goals.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Master's degree in Education, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• Proven experience in grant writing and fundraising, successfully securing funding for educational programs and initiatives.
• In-depth knowledge of local community resources and organizations in Battle Creek, with established connections and a strong network within the community.

Eligibility & Equal Opportunity

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment. Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin on Monday September 21, 2026, and the posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the university.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities. At Grand Valley State University, we empower learners in their pursuits, professions, and purpose. The university enriches society through excellent teaching, active scholarship, advancement of equity, and public service. The GVSU community is collaborative, inclusive, self-aware, goal- and growth-oriented. We value connection with fellow Lakers, both student and professional colleagues, and strive to challenge our existing state with innovative strategies. We are dedicated to student success, and the well-being of our community as a whole. Read more about our Reach Higher 2025 strategic plan and process.

TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State).