OST Group Leader - Cape Ann YMCA

Ymca Of The North Shore; Gloucester (MA); On-site; USD 23,419 - 28,929; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA membership

Paid training and professional development

Retirement plan with employer contribution

Employee discounts on programs

Job summary

Ymca Of The North Shore is seeking a Part-Time Group Leader for the Out-of-School-Time programs in Gloucester, MA. This role involves creating a safe and engaging environment for children, facilitating activities, and fostering positive relationships with participants.

The ideal candidate should have a High School Diploma or equivalent and a dedication to child development. The position offers a supportive work environment and opportunities for advancement.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Demonstrated understanding of child growth and development.
• Ability to create a positive, inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Create a positive environment that supports children's growth.
• Develop and implement age-appropriate activities.
• Ensure safety and maintain accurate documentation.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Leadership skills

Relationship-building skills

Understanding of child growth and development

Education

High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Glen T MacLeod Cape Ann YMCA – Gloucester, MA 01930

Position Type: Part Time

Salary Range: $17.00 - $21.00 Hourly

Job Shift: After School

Group Leader – Out of School Time Programs

Are you passionate about working with children and creating positive experiences that help them learn, grow, and thrive? Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in your community while building valuable leadership and youth development skills? If so, the YMCA of the North Shore may be the perfect fit for you.

We are seeking enthusiastic and caring Group Leaders to join our Out-of-School-Time team in Cape Ann. In this role, you will help create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where children can build friendships, develop confidence, and have fun before and after school.

What You’ll Do

Support Child Development

• Create a positive and inclusive environment that supports children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth
• Welcome and orient children and families to the program
• Build meaningful relationships with participants and encourage positive behavior
• Ensure all children feel safe, valued, and included

Plan & Lead Activities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate activities and lesson plans
• Lead games, enrichment activities, creative projects, and group experiences
• Adapt activities to meet the diverse needs and interests of participants
• Provide weekly lesson plans to the Site Coordinator

Ensure Safety & Program Quality

• Maintain active supervision of children at all times
• Follow YMCA policies, licensing regulations, and safety procedures
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and incidents
• Maintain accurate attendance and program documentation

Communicate & Collaborate

• Foster positive relationships with parents and guardians
• Communicate important information regarding participants with the Site Coordinator
• Work collaboratively with fellow staff members to create a successful program environment
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities

Maintain a Positive Environment

• Help keep program spaces organized, safe, and welcoming
• Monitor equipment and facilities and report any concerns to the Site Coordinator
• Model the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility in all interactions

Why Work at the Y?

• Free YMCA membership and employee discounts on programs
• Paid training and professional development
• Opportunities for advancement across YMCA of the North Shore locations
• Retirement plan with a 12% employer contribution (once vested, no match required)
• Sick time accrual
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Who Should Apply?

This position is ideal for individuals interested in education, child development, recreation, social work, psychology, or anyone who enjoys making a positive impact in the lives of children.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required
• Must meet all licensing requirements for a Group Leader as established by the applicable licensing agency
• Demonstrated understanding of child growth and development, with the ability to apply developmentally appropriate practices when working with children
• Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment for children and families

Requirements

• Must successfully complete all required fingerprinting and background screening requirements prior to employment
• Must maintain all required documentation and certifications within the employee file as required by licensing agencies
• Must complete all required trainings, certifications, and program orientation in accordance with licensing regulations and YMCA of the North Shore standards
• Commitment to upholding YMCA policies, procedures, and core values

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
• Must be able to actively participate in indoor and outdoor program activities
• Requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and moving throughout the program space
• Must be able to respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected situations and emergencies
• Ability to maintain active supervision of children and ensure a safe environment at all times
• Must possess the physical and mental stamina necessary to support a fast-paced childcare environment

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.