Group Leader – YMCA of Catawba Valley

Childrensresourcecenter; Hickory, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 18,000 - 21,000; Part time

Job summary

YMCA of Catawba Valley is seeking a Group Leader to supervise participants during program hours and deliver high-quality Youth Development activities. You will foster a safe, engaging environment that supports children’s social, emotional, physical, and academic growth.

You will work with the Program Coordinator and staff to ensure smooth program delivery and positive participant experiences across assigned regional locations. Strong communication and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior experience with children in a group setting preferred.
• BSAC, NC DCDEE, and YMCA certifications required within timelines.
• Valid driver license and ability to travel between locations.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision of participants and implement YMCA youth development programming according to standards and licensing.
• Create a safe, engaging, inclusive environment supporting social, emotional, physical and academic development.
• Serve as primary contact for assigned participants during program hours.
• Collaborate with the Program Coordinator and staff to ensure quality program delivery and positive experiences.
• Group Leaders may be assigned to a region and work at any YMCA Youth Development location within that region.

Skills

Communication skills

Child engagement

Organizational skills

Attendance tracking

Policy compliance

Computer basics

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

BSAC, NC DCDEE credentials

YMCA certifications

Tools

Email platforms

Job description

• Provide direct supervision of participants and implement high-quality Youth Development programming in accordance with YMCA standards, licensing requirements, and program expectations.
• Create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment that supports the social, emotional, physical, and academic development of children.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned participants during program hours.
• Work collaboratively with the Program Coordinator and other staff to ensure quality program delivery and positive participant experiences.
• Group Leaders are assigned to a designated program region rather than a specific site and may be scheduled to work at any assigned YMCA Youth Development program location within that region based on operational needs, staffing requirements, participant enrollment, and organizational priorities.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior experience working with children in a group setting is preferred.
• BSAC, NC DCDEE, and required YMCA certifications required within established timelines.
• Valid driver license and ability to travel between assigned program locations.

Knowledge:

• Basic knowledge of child development principles and age-appropriate practices for children and youth.
• Understanding of program safety practices and active supervision expectations.
• Knowledge of YMCA policies, procedures, and program standards, or the ability to learn them quickly.
• Understanding of the importance of maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Familiarity with educational, recreational, and enrichment activities appropriate for assigned age groups.

Skills:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage children in educational, recreational, and enrichment activities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate attendance and program records.
• Ability to follow YMCA policies, procedures, and program expectations.
• Basic computer skills, including email and electronic communication platforms.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Child Care Program Name

YMCA of Catawba Valley

Contact Person

Kimberly Curtis

Phone Number

828-639-2025

Your Email

[e-mail]

Position Available

Group Leader

Hours/Shift

5:45am-8:00am, 3:00pm-6:00pm

Requirements/Duties

• Provide direct supervision of participants and implement high-quality Youth Development programming in accordance with YMCA standards, licensing requirements, and program expectations.
• Create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment that supports the social, emotional, physical, and academic development of children.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned participants during program hours.
• Work collaboratively with the Program Coordinator and other staff to ensure quality program delivery and positive participant experiences.
• Group Leaders are assigned to a designated program region rather than a specific site and may be scheduled to work at any assigned YMCA Youth Development program location within that region based on operational needs, staffing requirements, participant enrollment, and organizational priorities.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior experience working with children in a group setting is preferred.
• BSAC, NC DCDEE, and required YMCA certifications required within established timelines.
• Valid driver license and ability to travel between assigned program locations.

Knowledge:

• Basic knowledge of child development principles and age-appropriate practices for children and youth.
• Understanding of program safety practices and active supervision expectations.
• Knowledge of YMCA policies, procedures, and program standards, or the ability to learn them quickly.
• Understanding of the importance of maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Familiarity with educational, recreational, and enrichment activities appropriate for assigned age groups.

Skills:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage children in educational, recreational, and enrichment activities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate attendance and program records.
• Ability to follow YMCA policies, procedures, and program expectations.
• Basic computer skills, including email and electronic communication platforms.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Pay/Hourly Wage

$13/hr

Open Date

August 19, 2026

Childrens Resource Group Leader – YMCA of Catawba Valley 08.25.2026