PROGRAM AIDE

Hands That Make A Difference Inc; New York (NY); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company parties

Competitive salary

Free uniforms

Job summary

Hands That Make A Difference Inc. seeks a Program Aide to support the daily implementation of the COMPASS Program in New York. You will supervise participants, help facilitate activities, track attendance, and assist with classroom management to create a safe, engaging environment.

The role partners with Activity Specialists and program leadership to promote youth development, coordinate events, and maintain records while upholding DYCD requirements and program policies.

Qualifications

• Education requirements include a High School Diploma or GED; college coursework in education or related field preferred.
• Experience with children, youth, or families in after-school, camp, or community programs preferred.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and engage participants during program activities; maintain a safe, welcoming environment.
• Assist Activity Specialists in preparing and facilitating activities and events.
• Support attendance tracking, sign-in/out procedures, and documentation.
• Follow DYCD policies, safety protocols, and confidentiality requirements.
• Collaborate with staff and leadership; participate in meetings and training.

Skills

Youth Development

Communication

Teamwork

Relationship Building

Accountability

Cultural Responsiveness

Flexibility

Problem Solving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

College coursework in Education, Youth Development, Human Services, or related field

Job description

Benefits:

• Company parties
• Competitive salary
• Free uniforms

The Program Aide supports the daily implementation of the DYCD-funded COMPASS Program by assisting with participant supervision, activity facilitation, attendance tracking, classroom management, and overall program operations. The Program Aide plays a critical role in creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where participants can learn, grow, and build positive relationships.

Working collaboratively with program leadership and Activity Specialists, the Program Aide helps ensure activities run smoothly while promoting positive youth development, participant engagement, and program success.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Participant Supervision & Support

• Supervise and actively engage participants during program activities.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all youth.
• Promote positive behavior and reinforce program expectations.
• Support participant transitions between activities and program components.
• Build positive relationships with participants and serve as a positive role model.

Activity & Program Support

• Assist Activity Specialists in preparing and facilitating activities.
• Support the implementation of educational, recreational, leadership, and enrichment activities.
• Assist with setting up and breaking down activity spaces and materials.
• Support special events, workshops, field trips, and family engagement activities.
• Encourage participant involvement and active participation.

Attendance & Administrative Support

• Assist with participant sign-in and sign-out procedures.
• Support attendance tracking and documentation.
• Report incidents, concerns, or participant issues to program leadership.
• Assist with maintaining program materials and supplies.
• Support administrative tasks as assigned.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all organizational policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Ensure participant safety during all program activities and events.
• Assist with emergency preparedness and response procedures.
• Support compliance with DYCD program requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding participant and family information.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work collaboratively with program staff and leadership.
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.
• Communicate effectively with participants, families, and staff.
• Support family engagement and community-building efforts.
• Contribute to a positive team environment.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• College coursework in Education, Youth Development, Human Services, or a related field preferred.

Experience

• Experience working with children, youth, or families preferred.
• Experience in after-school, summer camp, recreation, educational, or community-based programs preferred.
• Experience supporting group activities or youth programming preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to work effectively with children and adolescents.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality.
• Positive attitude and commitment to youth development.

Core Competencies

• Youth Development
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Relationship Building
• Accountability
• Cultural Responsiveness
• Flexibility
• Problem Solving

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and actively participate in program activities.
• Ability to supervise indoor and outdoor activities.
• Ability to lift and transport materials up to 25 pounds.

Required Certifications & Clearances

• Background Check
• Mandated Reporter Training
• Completion of all required DYCD trainings
• Additional clearances as required by DYCD and organizational policies

Accountability Measures (KPIs)

• Participant engagement and participation.
• Consistent supervision and support of participants.
• Attendance and documentation accuracy.
• Compliance with program policies and procedures.
• Positive contribution to program culture and team environment.
• Support of overall program goals and participant outcomes.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Hands That Make A Difference is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an environment where all employees, participants, and families are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.