Program Assistant (Spring 2027): Manhattan

Breakthrough New York; New York (NY); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Breakthrough New York is seeking a Program Assistant for Spring 2027 in Manhattan/Queens. You will work with staff, instructors, and students to execute after-school programming, focusing on logistics, attendance, snack delivery, and supply management.

The role runs Mondays and Wednesdays 4:00–7:00 PM during the semester, with January trainings and January 27–April 21 programming. Ideal candidates are college students, 18+, and committed to the term and BTNY values.

Qualifications

• Current college student or 18+ years old.
• Able to commit to the Spring 2027 term.
• Experience with middle school students preferred.
• Confident using Zoom and Google Drive; quick to learn new systems.

Responsibilities

• Support logistics and operations for after-school programming at Manhattan or Queens sites.
• Assist with attendance, snack setup, and online collections systems.
• Facilitate site inventory and supply ordering.
• Support planning and execution of on-site events.
• Assist with site maintenance and serve as a role model.

Skills

Relationship building

Commitment

Tech savvy

Core values alignment

Role model

Education

College student

Tools

Zoom

Google Drive

Job description

Program Assistant (Spring 2027): Manhattan

Department: Middle School

Employment Type: Seasonal - Part Time

Location: New York, NY

Compensation: $17.00 / hour

Description

Breakthrough New York empowers motivated students from low-income communities to achieve a college degree and reach their fullest potential. Our tuition-free program supports over 500 students and their families from 7th grade through college. We accept middle school students who are furthest from high-quality educational opportunities yet show promise and potential: 99% of students identify as persons of color; 76% qualify for free or reduced lunch; and 66% will be the first in their families to graduate college.

As a ten-year program, Breakthrough New York supports students and their families through key transition points in their academic journeys. We provide academic enrichment through summer and after-school opportunities; coach students to gain admissions into selective high schools and colleges, and expose students to diverse interests and careers so they can shape their own trajectories.

In addition to nurturing individual talent, we cultivate a thriving community of like-minded peers and mentors who encourage each other’s ambitions and passions. Personalized mentorship and holistic support are signature elements of our model, with over 200 near-peer seasonal staff and volunteers who work with students at each stage of our continuum.

The Breakthrough model works: 94% of Breakthrough students enroll in college preparatory high schools, and 97% are on track to graduate from college in four-six years. Learn more at Breakthrough New York's website.

ABOUT THE POSITION

As a Program Assistant you will work directly with our Program Manager, After School Instructors, Tutors, coaches and students to prepare for and execute successful after-school programming. You will be responsible for supporting program logistics and operations for one of our Middle School After School program sites.

After-School Program Assistants will work at one of two sites based on their preference:

• Queens: Forte Prep High School, 7802 Queens Boulevard
• Manhattan: The Town School, 540 East 76th Street, New York, NY 10021

RESPONSIBILITIES AND CALENDAR

Responsibilities:

Program Operations and Logistics (100%)

• Supporting logistics and operations for our after-school programming at one of our 2 sites in Manhattan or Queens
• Supporting with attendance entry, snack setup and delivery, and online collections systems
• Facilitating site inventory and supply ordering
• Supporting the planning and execution of on-site events
• Assisting in site maintenance (snack clean up, event breakdown, etc.)
• Being a role model at all times
• Other duties based on the BTNY site at which you are assigned

SCHEDULE AND TIME COMMITMENT

• This role is hired on a semester basis. The initial appointment covers the Spring semester only (January 13th, 2027 - April 21st, 2027). Continuation into the Summer/Fall semester is not guaranteed; however, staff who meet performance expectations and where program needs remain will likely be invited to return under a separate Summer/Fall semester contract. Conversations about potential Summer/Fall renewal typically begin in March, with Summer contracts signed before the end of April.
• You will provide onsite logistical and operational support every Monday and Wednesday from 4:00 - 7:00 pm throughout the academic semester (September - December).
• You will also have regular check-ins with your supervisor.
• You will be required to attend:
  • January 13 and January 14: Program Assistant in Person Training, 4:00 - 7:00 PM
  • January 27th - April 21st: In-person programming on Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:00 - 7:00 PM

WE'RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO

Who you are

• Can demonstrate experience and results with similar responsibilities to those listed above
• Is passionate about forming relationships with middle school students, while acting as a role model at all times
• Is a current college student and/or is 18 or older
• Can commit to the entire Spring 2027 Term (January 27th - April 21st)
• Is confident with Zoom, Google Drive, and comfortable learning new systems
• Demonstrates excellence in BTNY's Core Values

COMPENSATION

Program Assistants will be compensated at a rate of $17.00/hr