Before & After School Counselor

YMCA of Portsmouth; Portsmouth (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of Portsmouth is seeking a Counselor to support the Site Supervisor in creating a nurturing, learning-focused environment for young children in our before- and after-school program.

You will help supervise activities, implement developmentally appropriate curricula, and engage children to foster growth across cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language domains. CPR/First Aid certification within 30 days is required, with flexibility for peak shifts.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 16.
• CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire.
• Background checks including criminal background and reference checks may be required.

Responsibilities

• Supervision and Safety: Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times, actively supervising activities, meals, and transitions.
• Support Activities: Assist in preparing and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities.
• Child Engagement: Engage children in meaningful play experiences, encouraging exploration, creativity, and critical thinking.
• Behavior Management: Support positive behavior guidance techniques and model appropriate behavior.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with children, parents/guardians, staff, and YMCA leadership.
• Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and ongoing professional development.

Skills

Functional Expertise

Program & Project Management

Developing Self & Others

Job description

Description

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively influences the lives of children in your community. Working at the YMCA you’ll discover more than a job – you will have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the community.

Our Culture

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Position Summary

As a Counselor, you will play a vital role in supporting the Site Supervisor in providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for young children. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for early childhood education will contribute to the success of our before & after school program.

Essential Functions

• Supervision and Safety: Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times, actively supervising activities, meals, and transitions. Implement and enforce safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Support Activities: Assist Program Leaders in preparing and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities that promote learning and development across all domains: cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language.
• Child Engagement: Engage children in meaningful play experiences, encouraging exploration, creativity, and critical thinking. Foster positive relationships and provide individualized attention and support to meet the needs of each child.
• Behavior Management: Support positive behavior guidance techniques that promote self-regulation, conflict resolution, and social skills development. Model appropriate behavior and reinforce positive behaviors through praise and encouragement.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with children, parents/guardians, fellow staff members, and YMCA leadership. Provide feedback on childrens' progress and behavior as appropriate.
• Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the job.

Requirements

Leadership Competencies

• Functional Expertise
• Program and Project Management
• Developing Self and Others

Qualifications

The Counselor will meet the qualifications set forth by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care Health and Safety.

Minimum Qualifications Include

• Shall be at least 16 years of age
• Staff shall be in good character and reputation
• CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire
• Completes all pre-employment requirements including background checks
• Adequate speaking, hearing and writing skills appropriate for interacting with children required
• Ability to be on time, every time for scheduled shifts required
• Ability to work at various program locations preferred
• Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds

Work Environment And Physical Demands

• Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds
• While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions
• Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking
• Will be exposed to cleaning supplies
• Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time
• Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications
• During peak program seasons, may be expected to work night and weekend hours to meet program needs
• Accountable for completion of assigned goals as measured by the number of people served and service satisfaction scores.

Background Checks

An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks, E-Verify, drug test, driver's license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS). Additional driver's license check, CPS, criminal background check, alcohol, and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and/or maintain the requirements of this position.

Salary Description

$12.77-$13.50