Activity Specialist (MS 118 - Bronx)

About the role

The Police Athletic League (PAL) of New York City is an independent youth development nonprofit organization that has been serving communities across all five boroughs of the City since 1914. We operate diverse programs for children as young as 2 years old to young adults, including Head Start, after-school programs, summer day camps, and more.

We are looking for Part Time Activity Specialists who will be responsible for developing and implementing a broad range of specialties, including SEL, dance, sports, STEAM, life skills development, literacy, leadership, performing arts, visual arts, and college and career readiness.

Responsibilities

• Foster social and emotional competencies and mental and physical well-being in a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and nurturing environment.
• Teach participants the fundamentals of specialized activity to build their skill level and confidence.
• Coordinate and present a culminating performance at the end of the program cycle.
• Be aware of students with IEPs and medical conditions in your groups and follow support plans to help the student with special needs to thrive.
• Respond appropriately when time-sensitive mental health services are needed, such as suicide prevention, grief, and loss due to death or incarceration of a family member.
• Provide referrals to appropriate mental health services as needed.
• Work cooperatively with Group Leaders, professional staff, teachers, and other Program and school staff.
• Build positive relationships with youth and caretakers and serve as a role model with respect to demeanor, communication, and behavior.
• Attend meetings with staff, caretakers, volunteers, and community residents as needed.
• Interact with caretakers and keep open lines of communication.

Requirements

• Able to work 15 hours a week (3 hours a day, 5 days a week)
• Able to attend 15 hours of orientation prior to the beginning of programming.
• Able to attend scheduled staff meetings and professional development throughout the year.

Qualifications

• Minimum High School Diploma / GED.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Minimum of two years' work experience in a non-profit agency working with youth.
• Excellent classroom management, behavior management, and facilitation skills.
• Must show experience and competency in the material they would like to teach.
• Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively.
• Bi-lingual in Spanish, French, or Chinese preferred.
• Open to learning and growing.

Compensation and Benefits

The range for this role is $20-25.00 an hour, commensurate with skills and experience. PAL offers a comprehensive benefits package, which includes health insurance, flexible spending account options, an employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, pet insurance, life insurance, retirement savings options, a generous paid time off policy, training, and more!

Location and Start Date

Location: MS 118 - 577 E 179th St, Bronx, NY 10457. Start Date: September 7th, 2026.