Y Academy After-School Group Leader -Merrimack Branch

YMCA of Greater Nashua; Merrimack (NH); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

The Merrimack YMCA Branch is seeking a part-time Afterschool Group Leader to supervise elementary students after school, lead activities, and support homework and STEM projects in a safe, engaging setting.

You will build strong relationships with children, families, and staff, while fostering social-emotional growth and belonging in a fast-paced YMCA program.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Experience working with school-age children preferred.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to supervise children in a safe, positive, and engaging environment.
• Dependable, caring, and able to work effectively as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Build positive relationships with children, families, and staff through active listening, clear communication, and a caring, respectful approach.
• Create a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment by actively participating in games, activities, and daily routines.
• Always supervise children and follow YMCA policies, procedures, and behavior management guidelines to ensure their safety and well‑being.
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Assist children with homework and encourage leadership, teamwork, and positive social interactions.
• Follow the daily program schedule and support all Before the Bell activities and initiatives.
• Communicate regularly with parents regarding their child’s participation and well‑being.
• Report any suspected child abuse or safety concerns immediately, following YMCA and state reporting requirements.
• Work collaboratively as a member of the Before the Bell team and support program goals and YMCA initiatives.
• Participate in required trainings and seek ongoing professional development opportunities.

Skills

Childcare

Communication

Teamwork

Dependable

Job description

PART-TIME, NON-EXEMPT POSITION; YMCA OF GREATER NASHUA

Merrimack YMCA Branch

Learn, Grow and Thrive with a career at the Y

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively impacts the lives of the people in your community. Working at the Y, you’ll discover more than a job—you’ll enjoy a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

Position Summary

The Afterschool Group Leader creates a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for elementary-aged children at the end of the school day. This role is responsible for supervising children, building positive relationships, and leading a variety of fun, enriching activities, including games, homework support, outdoor play, STEM, arts, and group experiences. Group Leaders support children’s social-emotional development, ensure their safety and well‑being, and foster a sense of belonging where every child can learn, grow, and have fun. This position thrives in a fast-paced, energetic environment that requires flexibility, enthusiasm, and the ability to positively engage with children throughout the afternoon. The ideal candidate enjoys working with children, communicates effectively with families and school staff, and works collaboratively as part of a supportive team.

Schedule/Hours Of Operation

• Monday-Friday 2:15/2:30pm-6:00 pm (must be able to work Y Academy hours)
• Merrimack School District vacation weeks (December, February & April)
• The program is open 6:30 am – 6:00 pm
• MUST be available to work any 8 hours within that time frame each day
• Merrimack School District snow days/no school days
• The program is open 6:30 am – 6:00 pm
• MUST work any 8 hours within that time frame
• Merrimack School District early release days
• The program is open 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
• MUST work within that time frame

May be asked to ride the school bus

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Experience working with school-age children preferred.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to supervise children in a safe, positive, and engaging environment.
• Dependable, caring, and able to work effectively as part of a team.

Essential Functions

• Build positive relationships with children, families, and staff through active listening, clear communication, and a caring, respectful approach.
• Create a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment by actively participating in games, activities, and daily routines.
• Always supervise children and follow YMCA policies, procedures, and behavior management guidelines to ensure their safety and well‑being.
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Assist children with homework and encourage leadership, teamwork, and positive social interactions.
• Follow the daily program schedule and support all Before the Bell activities and initiatives.
• Communicate regularly with parents regarding their child’s participation and well‑being.
• Report any suspected child abuse or safety concerns immediately, following YMCA and state reporting requirements.
• Work collaboratively as a member of the Before the Bell team and support program goals and YMCA initiatives.
• Participate in required trainings and seek ongoing professional development opportunities.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands, and communicate clearly
• Occasionally lift/move up to 20 pounds
• Vision requirements include near and distance vision
• Outdoor play occurs in all seasons, including winter

Required Training/Certifications: (YMCA Assisted/Provided)

• Child Abuse Prevention
• First Aid/CPR Certified (child)
• Physical/health exam (recent)
• NH Child Care Licensing Requirements (Director will assist)
• Household Personnel Form
• ProSolutions: Health & Safety Professional Development
• State Background Check for those 16 and older
• NH Connections Account

Ymca Competencies

• Relationships: Builds rapport and relates well to others.
• Inclusion: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and pe
• Innovation: Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member
• Quality Results: Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for youth and families.
• Self-Development: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance.

Our Culture

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture.

We are welcoming

we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become.

We are genuine

we value you and embrace your individuality.

We are hopeful

we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.

We are nurturing

we support you in your journey to develop your full potential.

We are determined

above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you!