Youth Development Specialist

Union League Boys & Girls Clubs; Chicago, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Union League Boys & Girls Clubs seeks a Youth Development Specialist to deliver engaging, hands-on programs supporting academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character. The role is on-site and part-time seasonal, focusing on safe, inclusive youth engagement.

You will prepare materials, lead activities, and foster positive relationships while ensuring safety and adherence to club policies. Prior experience with youth and a completed background check are preferred.

Qualifications

• High School diploma.
• Some experience working with children.
• Ability to relate to youth and manage a classroom.
• Teamwork, patience, and creativity are essential.
• Reliable and punctual.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Background check and drug test required.
• Attend all staff meetings.
• May drive Club van or other responsibilities as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging, hands-on programs aligned with the three priority outcomes.
• Read lesson plans, prepare materials, and set up activities in advance.
• Encourage participation across program areas and provide constructive feedback.
• Maintain safety, proper conduct, and positive relationships with members.
• Mentor and motivate youth to pursue their goals.
• Oversee special programs or events as needed; may drive club van.
• Record attendance and submit required paperwork on time.

Skills

Teamwork

Patience

Creativity

Reliability

Punctuality

Education

High School diploma

Experience working with children

Job description

Location:

On-site

Classification:

This is a Part-Time Seasonal Position

Primary Function

The Youth Development Specialist is responsible for delivering engaging, hands-on programs that support the three priority outcomes of Boys & Girls Clubs: Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, and Good Character & Citizenship. Serving as the primary point of contact for member engagement, the Youth Development Specialist fosters a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment where every young person can learn, grow, and thrive.

Prepare Youth for Success:

• Execute Club programs and activities that support Youth Development Outcomes, under the guidance of the Program Director and Outcome Area Directors.
• Facilitate fun and educational activities with kids, staying consistent with organizational goals and mission.
• Read lesson plans, lay out materials in advance, and perform other tasks to prepare for day-to-day program activities.
• Ensure that members are encouraged to participate in a variety of program areas/activities and receive instruction and constructive feedback to develop skills.
• Maintain control of the group and demonstrate leadership to ensure proper conduct, safety, and development of members.
• Form positive relationships with youth—mentor, coach, and encourage them to believe in themselves and their dreams.
• Keep members safe by following and enforcing all child safety policies and procedures in effect at your Club site.

Facility Maintenance:

• Ensure program areas are clean, safe, well ventilated, and well lit.
• Make sure Club equipment is maintained in good working condition.
• Clean your area at the end of each day.

Record Keeping

• Take accurate attendance for each activity.
• Turn in timesheets and other required paperwork on time.

Additional Responsibilities

• May oversee special programs and/or events (i.e., Keystone, Youth of the Year, Awards Programs), and/or participate in the implementation of other club activities as necessary.
• May be required to drive Club van or authorized automobile periodically.
• May consult with parents concerning member and Club issues.
• Must work with predetermined group partners and be able to work as a team player with all peers.

Requirements

Skills/Knowledge Required:

• High School diploma.
• Some experience working with children is required. Previous experience in a Boys & Girls Club or similar organization planning and supervising activities with groups of young people is strongly preferred.
• Must be able to relate to young people and control a classroom while ensuring activities remain fun and engaging.
• Teamwork skills, patience, and creativity are essential.
• Must be reliable and punctual—members will be counting on you! Show up on time and be ready to give them your full attention.

Other Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check and drug test
• Must attend all staff meetings
• Assume other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor