Inclusion Specialist - Haverhill YMCA

YMCA of the North Shore; Haverhill (MA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA membership

Training & development

Career advancement

Health & dental insurance

Paid time off

12% retirement contribution

Team environment

Job summary

YMCA of the North Shore – Haverhill YMCA is seeking a compassionate Inclusion Specialist to support children, families, and staff within after-school programs and summer camp. This full-time role focuses on fostering welcoming, inclusive environments where children of all abilities thrive and participate.

Responsibilities include coaching staff on inclusion, developing individualized supports, and partnering with families and school partners to ensure consistent care across settings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience with school-age children in educational, childcare, camp, or behavioral support settings.
• Knowledge of child development, social-emotional learning, and inclusive practices.
• Familiarity with IEPs, behavior plans, and/or early intervention services.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Support children with varying social, emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs within after school and camp programs.
• Partner with program staff to create inclusive, supportive, and successful program environments.
• Observe children and help develop individualized behavior support strategies and accommodations.
• Collaborate with families, school personnel, and outside providers to ensure consistency and support across settings.
• Provide coaching and guidance to staff on behavior management, inclusion practices, and social‑emotional support.
• Review behavioral trends and help implement proactive strategies that support participant success.
• Assist with staff training and family communication related to inclusion and child development.
• Help ensure children feel safe, connected, and engaged within YMCA programs.

Skills

Communication skills

Relationship-building

Problem solving

Collaboration

Empathy

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Human Services/related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Now Hiring: Inclusion Specialist (Full-Time)

YMCA of the North Shore - Haverhill YMCA

Supporting After‑School Programs & Summer Camp

Do you believe every child deserves the opportunity to feel included, supported, and successful? Are you passionate about helping children thrive through positive behavior support, collaboration, and individualized care? If so, the YMCA of the North Shore has an exciting opportunity for you!

The Haverhill YMCA is seeking a compassionate and experienced Full-Time Inclusion Specialist to support children, families, and staff within our After School Programs and Summer Camp. This role plays an important part in helping create welcoming and inclusive environments where children of all abilities can participate, build confidence, and succeed.

The Inclusion Specialist will work closely with program staff, families, school partners, and community resources to provide guidance, coaching, and individualized support strategies that promote positive experiences for every child.

What You'll Do

• Support children with varying social, emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs within after school and camp programs
• Partner with program staff to create inclusive, supportive, and successful program environments
• Observe children and help develop individualized behavior support strategies and accommodations
• Collaborate with families, school personnel, and outside providers to ensure consistency and support across settings
• Provide coaching and guidance to staff on behavior management, inclusion practices, and social‑emotional support
• Review behavioral trends and help implement proactive strategies that support participant success
• Assist with staff training and family communication related to inclusion and child development
• Help ensure children feel safe, connected, and engaged within YMCA programs

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Psychology, or a related field preferred
• Experience working with school‑age children in educational, childcare, camp, or behavioral support settings
• Knowledge of child development, social‑emotional learning, and inclusive practices
• Familiarity with IEPs, behavior plans, and/or early intervention services preferred
• Strong communication, relationship‑building, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, families, and community partners
• Passion for inclusion, youth development, and supporting children of all abilities

Why Work at the Y?

• Free YMCA membership and employee discounts on programs
• Paid training and professional development opportunities
• Advancement and growth opportunities across YMCA locations
• Health and dental insurance for full‑time employees
• Generous paid time off package
• Retirement plan with a 12% employer contribution (once vested, no match required)
• Supportive, mission‑driven team environment

Join the Haverhill YMCA and help create an inclusive environment where every child feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed!

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Special Education, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred but not required
• Previous experience working with diverse populations and building authentic relationships across backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and successfully implement child safety and behavioral support plans.
• Knowledge of child development, social/emotional health, and trauma‑informed practices.
• Experience working with state agencies and knowledge of local community resources for families.
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and empathy when working with children, families, and staff.
• Salary range is based on education and experience, with higher ranges available for candidates holding a master's degree.

Requirements

• Must provide and maintain all documentation and certifications required by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC).
• Must complete all trainings, certifications, and program orientation as required by EEC and the YMCA of the North Shore.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 lbs.
• Must be able to react quickly to the unpredictable actions and needs of children.

The YMCA is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religious creed, protected genetic information, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran's status.