Activity Specialist DYCD COMPASS-Bronx, NY

Job Summary

The Activity Specialist is responsible for designing, planning, and facilitating engaging, high-quality enrichment programming within an assigned specialty area for participants enrolled in The Home's DYCD COMPASS Afterschool Program based in the Bronx, NY. The Activity Specialist serves as a subject matter expert and is responsible for developing and delivering project-based, hands-on learning experiences that promote creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, and positive youth development. Programming should support participants' academic, social-emotional, physical, and personal growth while aligning with the goals and quality standards of the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD).

Specialty Area Responsibilities

• May be assigned to one or more of the following specialty areas based on organizational needs and demonstrated expertise:
• Physical Fitness & Wellness
• STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics)
• Creative Arts
• Digital Media & Technology
• Literacy & Academic Enrichment
• Social Emotional Learning & Leadership
• Culinary Arts & Healthy Living
• Environmental Science & Sustainability
• Entrepreneurship & Financial Literacy
• Performing Arts (Dance, Theater, Music)
• College & Career Readiness (Middle School)
• Other specialty enrichment areas approved by program leadership.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or High School Equivalency required.
• Associate degree or bachelor's degree in education, Child Development, Recreation, Fine Arts, Physical Education, Exercise Science, Dance, Music, Theater, STEM, Computer Science, Engineering, Culinary Arts, Environmental Science, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) + years of professional experience teaching, coaching, facilitating, or providing instruction within the assigned specialty area.
• Minimum of two (2) + years of experience working with school-age children in an educational, recreational, youth development, childcare, camp, or afterschool setting.
• Demonstrated expertise through professional experience, certifications, licensure, portfolio of work, higher education coursework, or specialized training within the assigned specialty area.
• Experience designing and implementing lesson plans, project-based learning activities, or enrichment programming preferred.
• Experience working in DYCD COMPASS, 21st CCLC, OCFS School-Age Child Care, educational, recreation, camp, or youth development programs preferred.
• Current certifications related to the specialty area are strongly preferred when applicable (e.g., CPR/AED, Personal Trainer, Coaching Certification, Teaching Certification, Robotics Certification, Adobe Creative Suite, Food Handler Certification, OSHA Certification, etc.).
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities Required

• Demonstrated expertise within the assigned specialty area.
• Knowledge of positive youth development principles and best practices.
• Ability to develop engaging lesson plans and project-based learning experiences.
• Strong instructional, facilitation, and classroom management skills.
• Ability to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with program leadership and fellow staff.
• Ability to inspire creativity, curiosity, leadership, and lifelong learning.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and basic educational technology.
• Ability to participate in indoor and outdoor activities, supervise field trips, lift and transport program materials up to 25 pounds, and occasionally work evenings or special events.