School-Age Group Leader (Harlem Community Center)

YMCA of Rock River Valley, Inc.; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 26,174,400 - 35,817,600; Part time

Job summary

YMCA of Rock River Valley, Inc. in Rockford, IL invites applications for a Part-time School-Age Group Leader at Harlem Community Center. You will guide school-age children in after-school and camp activities, ensuring safety and an inclusive, engaging program environment.

Responsibilities include leading daily activities, supporting curriculum, supervising swimming and other activities, and traveling between program sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• 1 year of related leadership experience in a childcare setting preferred.
• Training required upon hire: Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter; CPR, AED and First Aid within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Lead a group of children through daily activities that are fun, engaging, and aligned with program goals.
• Support day-to-day site operations.
• Supervise and actively participate in all activities, including swimming and water-based programs.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all participants.
• Build strong, positive relationships with youth and serve as a consistent role model.
• Support curriculum-based academic, recreational, and enrichment activities.
• Assist with behavior management using positive guidance techniques.
• Model respectful behavior and promote teamwork, healthy habits, and sportsmanship.
• Maintain clean, organized spaces and care for equipment.
• Communicate with leadership and participate in team meetings and trainings.
• Ensure compliance with state regulations, safety standards, and program policies.
• Report safety concerns or equipment needs promptly and support overall program operations.

Skills

Childcare leadership

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Gateways Training

DCFS Mandated Reporter Training

CACFP/SFSP Training

CPR Certification

First Aid Certification

AED Certification

Job description

YOUR IMPACT

The School-Age Group Leader is a dedicated and enthusiastic individual responsible for guiding and mentoring a group of children in school age programs- like before and after school and camp programing. Reporting to the Vice President of Youth Development and working closely with the Site Lead, the Group Leader plays a key role in implementing engaging, educational, and recreational activities that support the development of youth. This position requires a commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment, fostering positive relationships with participants, parents, and school staff. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed.

YOUR IMPACT

The School-Age Group Leader is a dedicated and enthusiastic individual responsible for guiding and mentoring a group of children in school age programs- like before and after school and camp programing. Reporting to the Vice President of Youth Development and working closely with the Site Lead, the Group Leader plays a key role in implementing engaging, educational, and recreational activities that support the development of youth. This position requires a commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment, fostering positive relationships with participants, parents, and school staff. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed.

What Your Day May Look Like

No two days are the same in this role — but every day centers on creating a safe, fun, and engaging environment where youth can learn, play, and build positive relationships during camps and beyond.

• Lead a group of children through daily activities that are fun, engaging, and aligned with program goals
• Support day-to-day site operations
• Supervise and actively participate in all activities, including swimming and water-based programs
• Create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all participants
• Build strong, positive relationships with youth and serve as a consistent role model
• Support academic, recreational, and enrichment activities using provided curriculum
• Assist with behavior management using positive guidance techniques and program values
• Model respectful behavior and promote teamwork, healthy habits, and sportsmanship
• Maintain clean, organized program spaces and care for equipment
• Communicate effectively with leadership and participate in team meetings and trainings
• Ensure compliance with all state regulations, safety standards, and program policies
• Report safety concerns or equipment needs promptly and support overall program operations
  
  

If you enjoy working with youth, thrive in an active environment, and want to make a positive impact every day — this role is for you.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 4 Positions

Positions 1 - 4: Harlem Community Center

Part Time, Non-Exempt

Schedule Varies Monday - Friday 1:45 - 5:45 pm with a maximum of 25 hours per week

$17.00 per hour

WORK LOCATION

Harlem Community Center - 900 Roosevelt Road, Machesney Park

Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred
• 1-year related experience of leadership in a childcare setting preferred
• Training required upon hire: Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter. Any additional certifications that are required by the state of Illinois
• CACFP/SFSP Training required within 90 days
• CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days
  
  

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT HCC! Employment benefit information available HERE.

HCC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.