Before & Afterschool Assistant Counselor

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges; Livingston (NJ); On-site; USD 22,000 - 26,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid sick leave

Legal plan

Disability insurance

Life insurance

403(b) plan

Employee assistance program

Program discounts

Complimentary YMCA facilities

Job summary

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is seeking a Group Assistant to support youth programs in New Jersey. The role emphasizes safety, activity support, and positive engagement with children and families.

The position requires basic youth development understanding, strong communication, teamwork, and the ability to problem-solve. Certifications such as First-Aid/CPR/AED may be required, along with background checks and health screenings.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma preferred.
• Basic understanding of youth development principles.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with staff, parents and school staff.
• Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Up to one year experience leading group activities preferred.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• First-Aid, CPR and AED certification may be required.
• Must complete CARI Background Check, CHRI/Fingerprinting and provide proof of a Mantoux test within two weeks of hire.

Responsibilities

• Assist and ensure the safety of all children of assigned group by following the supervision standards in the Code of Conduct and Licensing Requirements.
• Assist and support the implementation of program activities including running or participating in CATCH, Healthy U, helping with snack and providing homework support as assigned.
• Follow YMCA protocols for dealing with First-Aid and emergency situations.
• Use positive group management techniques and address behavior problems within policy.
• Build professional relationships with children, their families and school personnel.
• Represent the YMCA in a positive manner in all interactions with participants, families, and school personnel.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary program environment by ensuring supplies and equipment are cleaned before and after snack/activities.
• Adhere to sanitation and health guidelines as required by licensing or authorizing agencies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication with staff/parents

Problem solving

Teamwork

First-Aid/CPR/AED certification may be

Education

High School Diploma preferred

Job description

We are an all - inclusive organization joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. As a growing, mission focused, and future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven, candidate to join our team.

Sign on bonus may apply

Note that this position begins in September of 2026 and ends in June of 2026. If you are interested in multiple roles, we will be adding new positions across multiple departments with the opening of our new West Essex YMCA, in December of 2026! Continue to check our careers page for updates!

Requirements

*Note, this position is identified as "Group Assistant" within the YMCA.*

Essential Functions

• Assist and ensure the safety of all children of assigned group by following the supervision standards in the Code of Conduct and Licensing Requirements. Maintain constant head/face counts when transitioning between activities. Provide restroom supervision and, ensure children wash their hands after using the rest room.
• Assist and support the implementation of program activities including running or participating in CATCH, Healthy U, helping with snack and providing homework support as assigned. Use resources available to deliver activities that meet the purpose and vision of the Y Program and according to assigned curriculum, including 30 minutes of CATCH activities each day.
• Follow YMCA protocols for dealing with First-Aid and emergency situations. Participate in monthly safety drills.
• Use positive group management techniques. Anticipate and deal with behavior problems in accordance with YMCA’s Discipline and Expulsion Policy.
• Build professional relationships with children, their families and school personnel.
• Represent the YMCA in a positive manner in all interactions, including participants and their families, and school personnel. Function as a positive role model and set a positive example through behavior.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary program environment by ensuring supplies, equipment and tables are cleaned before and after snack or activities. Assist with snack set up/clean up. Ensure children wash their hands before snack. Report any maintenance issues, or supply and equipment needs to the Site Supervisor.
• Ensure the health and comfort of all children is maintained by providing attentive and hygienic care for children if they soil themselves, including changing soiled underwear or disposable training pants, including regular diaper changes as needed, ensuring cleanliness, following proper diaper-changing techniques to maintain the child’s health and comfort. Follow YMCA protocols for changing soiled underwear and disposable training pants.
• Adhere to sanitation and health guidelines as required by the licensing or authorizing agency (ies) and Metro Y policies and procedures.
• Promote Y Programs and Camps to families. Assist with planning and implementation of special events, including Annual Campaign.
• Attend all YMCA training and meetings as requested. Maintain certifications necessary for the position throughout the program.
• Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary.

Requirements/Qualifications

• High School Diploma preferred.
• Basic understanding of youth development principles.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communication with all levels including staff, parents and school staff.
• Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Up to one (1) year experience, leading group activities preferred.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• First-Aid, CPR and AED certification may be required.
• Must complete CARI Background Check, CHRI/Fingerprinting and provide proof of a Mantoux test within two weeks of hire.

Part Time Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes paid sick leave, a legal plan, disability insurance, life insurance, 12% retirement benefits upon eligibility, a 403 (b) plan, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, Metro Y program discounts, and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.

• Full job description provided upon interview process.*

Salary Description

$16.00-$19.02 per hour