About this role
POSITION DETAILS: Job Title: Program Specialist (Teen) Status: Part Time Non-Exempt Department: Sports and Recreation Reports to: Sports and Recreation Director
POSITION SUMMARY: The Program Specialist (Teen) plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position creates a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where teens can build confidence, develop leadership skills, and feel a strong sense of belonging, guided by the YMCA’s core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—we foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Foster a warm and supportive environment where youth and teens feel a sense of belonging and develop confidence through achievement.
• This role supports the supervision of youth and teen programing.
• Ensure a physically and emotionally safe learning space for all.
• Support the development and implementation of a curriculum that encourages positive development.
• Provide active supervision of participants and their engagement throughout the program.
• Build strong, positive relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open and professional communication.
• Prepare and organize materials for daily activities.
• Ensure program space and equipment are clean, organized, and safe; promptly report any safety concerns.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and family engagement events.
• Model professional behavior while following YMCA policies related to confidentiality, conduct, and behavioral expectations.
• Adhere to all local, state, and YMCA policies and procedures, including ADA accommodations where appropriate.
• Model YMCA values and uses the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing.
• Support and guild other staff in demonstrating these behaviors consistently across the program.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the program and broader YMCA mission.
YMCA COMPETENCY AREAS:
• Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Uses sound judgment to design and adapt programs that align with adolescent development, promote positive outcomes, and uphold safety standards.
• Communication & Influence: Builds trust and rapport with teens while maintaining appropriate boundaries. Communicates effectively and helps maintain a positive, collaborative program culture.
• Program/Project Management: Plans, coordinates, and delivers teen-focused programs aligned with YMCA mission and goals.
• Developing Self & Others: Serves as a positive role model for youth while supporting peer learning and promoting continued growth and development.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Two years of previous experience working with youth in a developmental setting preferred.
• Associate’s degree preferred or equivalent experience.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Previous experience with diverse populations.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Understands that the YMCA is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS (or willingness to obtain upon hire):
• Bloodborne Pathogens Training (or equivalent approved by the YMCA)
• Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
• Emergency Procedures Training
• CPR and First Aid Certification
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds safely and repeatedly using proper technique.
• Physically able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, sit on the floor, and move quickly to respond to children's needs.
• Participate in active play, including indoor and outdoor activities in a variety of weather conditions.
• Maintain continuous visual and auditory supervision of children in busy, dynamic environments.
• Adapt to a fast-paced, team-centered work environment with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
IMPACT STATEMENT: This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA’s mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.