Before and After School Counselor II

YMCA of Portsmouth; Barco (NC); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of South Hampton Roads seeks a Counselor II to provide a safe, inclusive child care experience for 5–12-year-olds. You will mentor, model, and facilitate activities, helping children build social skills and confidence.

You will lead programs in sports, arts, nature, STEM; manage groups; support positive behavior; promote diversity; communicate with parents and staff; participate in professional development.

Qualifications

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have a high school diploma or the equivalent.
• Meet the Lead Teacher qualifications as defined by VA DOE Division of Child Care Health and Safety.
• CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire.
• Completes all pre-employment requirements including background checks.

Responsibilities

• Supervision and Safety: Ensure safety and well-being of children at all times, supervising activities, meals, and transitions.
• Programming: Lead and assist in delivering a diverse range of activities including sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, team-building exercises, and STEM.
• Group Management: Manage a group of children, foster positive relationships and promote teamwork.
• Behavior Management: Support positive behavior guidance techniques that promote self-regulation and social skills development.
• Inclusion and Diversity: Create an inclusive and welcoming environment where all children feel valued and respected.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with children, families, staff, and YMCA leadership.
• Professional Development: Participate in training sessions and staff meetings to enhance skills.

Skills

Functional Expertise

Program and Project Management

Developing Self & Others

Education

High school diploma or the equivalent

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.

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 II at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, you will play a vital role in providing a safe, inclusive, and enriching child care experience for children and youth ages 5‑12. You will serve as a mentor, role model, and facilitator, guiding children through a variety of recreational, educational, and character‑building activities. By fostering a supportive and positive environment, you will help children develop social skills, build confidence, and create lasting memories.

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.
• Programming: Lead and assist in the delivery of a diverse range of activities, including but not limited to sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, team‑building exercises, and STEM.
• Group Management: Manage a group of children, fostering positive relationships and promoting teamwork and cooperation among peers. Facilitate conflict resolution and provide emotional support as needed.
• 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.
• Inclusion and Diversity: Create an inclusive and welcoming environment where all children feel valued, respected, and celebrated for their unique backgrounds and abilities.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with children, parents/guardians, fellow staff members, and YMCA leadership. Provide feedback on children's’ 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 & Others

Qualifications

• The Counselor (Program Lead) 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:
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have a high school diploma or the equivalent
• Meet the minimum qualifications for “Lead Teacher” as defined by the VA Department of Education Division of Child Care Health and Safety
• 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.