Before & Afterschool Lead Counselor

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges; Hamburg (NJ); On-site; USD 22,000 - 28,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid sick leave

Disability insurance

Life insurance

12% retirement benefits upon eligible

403(b) plan

Employee assistance program

Metro Y program discounts

Complimentary YMCA facilities

Job summary

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges in New Jersey seeks a part-time Group Leader to supervise and engage groups of children in after-school programs. You will lead activities, ensure safety, and provide homework support while following YMCA policies and health guidelines.

You will work as part of a dedicated team, coordinating with families and school staff, and you will participate in trainings to maintain certifications. This role offers a competitive benefits package for part-time staff.

Qualifications

• HS Diploma required; college credits/degree preferred.
• Basic understanding of youth development principles.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with staff, parents and school personnel.
• Ability to problem solve and make decisions aligned with YMCA mission.
• Ability to relate to children and build professional relationships.
• 1–3 years of experience leading group activities.
• Team player who can take initiative to reduce risks.
• First-Aid, CPR and AED certification may be required.
• Must complete background checks and provide health/test documents.

Responsibilities

• Lead and ensure the safety of all children in the assigned group following supervision standards.
• Implement program activities including games, physical activities, snacks, and homework support.
• Follow safety drills and YMCA protocols for emergencies.
• Utilize positive group management techniques and address behavior per policy.
• Build relationships with children, families, and school personnel.
• Represent the YMCA positively in all interactions and be a good role model.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary program environment and report needs to the Site Supervisor.
• Attend trainings and meetings; maintain necessary certifications for the role.
• Perform other duties as requested.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Youth development principles

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma

College credits/degree preferred

Tools

First-Aid Certification

CPR Certification

AED Certification

Job description

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. Note that this position

begins in September of 2026 and ends in June of 2026.

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

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. Note that this position begins in September of 2026 and ends in June of 2026. Requirements *Note, this position is identified as "Group Leader" within the YMCA.*

Essential Functions

• Lead 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.
• Lead and support the implementation of program activities including running games and physical activities, 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.
• 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 required, college credits/degree 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 make decisions that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Minimum of one (1) - three (3) years' experience leading group activities.
• 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.

Benefits Part-Time 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. Salary Description $16.50-$19.65 per hour