Portage - Youth Development Professional (School Year)

Boys-&-Girls-Club-of-Greater-Northwest-Indiana-In; Portage (IN); On-site; USD 14,774 - 21,042; Part time

Job summary

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Northwest Indiana is seeking a part-time Youth Development Professional to support after-school programming at our Portage location. The role runs afternoons, 1pm to 7pm, Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend shifts for rentals.

The hourly rate is $13.00, and the position is up to 29 hours per week. The YDP will plan and implement engaging activities across Arts, STEM, and sports, while promoting safety, inclusivity, and positive youth development.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent and ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification.
• Prior experience with youth programs is preferred.
• Must pass background check and drug screening as required.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement engaging, grant-aligned programming in assigned areas (Arts, STEM, Sports).
• Deliver structured activities and supervise youth during sessions.
• Track attendance and program data to meet grant outcomes.
• Maintain safe, clean, and inclusive spaces for youth.
• Foster youth voice, leadership, and social-emotional development.
• Collaborate with Club leadership, staff, and community partners.

Skills

Communication skills

Organization

Time management

Youth motivation

Behavior management

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Some college education preferred

Tools

CPR & First Aid certification

Job description

DescriptionLocation: 5895 Evergreen Ave., Portage, IN 46368Position Type: Part Time (up to 29 hours a week)Job Shift: Afternoon 1pm to 7pm Monday through Friday, Occasional weekend shifts for rentalsHourly Rate: $13.00Position SummaryThe Youth Development Professional (YDP) is responsible for creating, planning, implementing, and supervising high-quality, grant-aligned programs that support the academic, social-emotional, and physical development of youth. YDPs may be assigned to a variety of program areas including the Art Room, Gym, STEM Room, Games Room, or Cafeteria, depending on organizational needs and individual strengths.This role is essential in providing a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where youth can learn, grow, and build positive relationships. YDPs are responsible for delivering structured programming, supporting grant outcomes, and fostering youth voice, leadership, and skill development across all program areas at any of our Club.Major Duties and ResponsibilitiesProgramming & InstructionPlan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate, and grant-aligned programming within assigned program areas (Arts, STEM, Sports & Recreation, Games Room, or Cafeteria/Nutrition).Facilitate a variety of activities such as:Creative arts (visual, digital, performing, literary, applied)STEM (science, technology, engineering, math, coding, and hands-on learning)Sports and recreation (gym activities, games, and physical wellness)Social recreation (structured games, tournaments, and team-building)Nutrition and food service support (snack programs, cafeteria supervision, and healthy habits)Adapt programming to meet the needs, interests, and skill levels of youth.Maintain structured daily schedules and routines to ensure smooth program flow.Youth Development & EngagementBuild positive, supportive relationships with youth and serve as a mentor and role model.Create a physically and emotionally safe, inclusive, and engaging environment.Promote youth voice, leadership, teamwork, and positive behavior.Support youth in developing social-emotional skills, confidence, and goal-setting habits.Encourage participation, creativity, and exploration across all program areas.Program Operations & Grant ComplianceEnsure all programming aligns with organizational goals, grant requirements, and expected outcomes.Track attendance, participation, and required program data accurately.Maintain clean, organized, and safe program spaces.Monitor and manage supplies, equipment, and inventory within assigned areas.Follow all safety, supervision, and organizational policies and procedures.Collaboration & ProfessionalismWork collaboratively with Club leadership, staff, and community partners.Support overall Club operations, including transitions, special events, and field trips.Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.Communicate effectively with team members and leadership.Perform other duties as assigned to support Club success.Work Environment & FlexibilityYDPs may rotate or be assigned to different program areas such as the Art Room, Gym, STEM Room, Games Room, or Cafeteria.Flexibility, teamwork, and a willingness to support various program areas are essential.Knowledge/Skills Required:High school diploma or equivalentAt least 18 years of ageSome college education preferredPrevious experience working with youth, particularly elementary school ageWorking knowledge of youth development as well as experience with Boys & Girls Clubs preferredAbility to motivate youth, manage behavior, and foster a positive learning environment.Strong communication, organization, and time management skills.Ability to work effectively with youth, families, staff, volunteers, and community partners.CPR and First Aid certification required (or ability to obtain).Ability to satisfactorily pass a criminal history background check.Ability to satisfactorily pass a drug screen for all federally illegal substances.Must be authorized to work in the US.