Junior Babysitter

Under the direction of the AD of Family Programming, the Junior Babysitter will assist lead babysitters and provide childcare for children ages 3 months to 11 years while keeping them safe and engaged.

About the role

Babysitters will staff JCare Babysitting, a drop-off childcare program. They endeavor to create a safe, nurturing, and playful environment for children ranging from infants to school-aged children. The babysitting shifts will take place primarily on weekends with some occasional weekday opportunities. JCC Greater Boston is deeply committed to valuing and celebrating the uniqueness of each constituent. While proudly Jewish, we strive to provide an open and welcoming setting for all, irrespective of personal practices, beliefs, or background. We are guided by JCC Greater Boston’s core values: Belonging, Joyfulness, Collaboration, and Transformation.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for children by overseeing daily check-in procedures, facilitating age-appropriate activities, and supporting positive social interactions while maintaining safety protocols and attentive supervision.
• Assist a Lead Babysitter with all the following:
  • Welcome children and caregivers as they arrive, noting any unique needs (e.g., allergies, medications).
  • Oversee the check-in process with families, including online reservation management.
  • Ensure children’s safety and adherence to rules (e.g., no climbing on furniture).
  • Create a dynamic, fun play space by engaging children in activities and directing them toward available toys and programs.
  • Facilitate arts & crafts activities for the older classroom, as needed.
  • Support children’s interactions by introducing newcomers and encouraging cooperative play.
  • Assist with supervision and/or redirection of children.
  • Implement educational activities, games, and creative play.
  • Monitor children during indoor play.
• Ensure a safe, supportive, and organized environment by:
  • Maintaining a clean and organized classroom, including sanitizing toys and surfaces.
  • Communicating with caregivers in a courteous and professional manner.
  • Ensuring caregivers have prepped children before drop-off (e.g., changing diapers, feedings, clean clothing).
  • Observing and reporting any behavioral or health concerns to management.
  • Following all safety and health regulations as outlined by the facility and licensing authorities.
  • Being familiar with emergency protocols and escalating any safety concerns with appropriate parties.
• Actively create a welcoming environment where each individual feels seen and valued.
• Support JCC Greater Boston’s mission, vision, and values of belonging, joyfulness, collaboration, and transformation through personal role modeling.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Must be 16 years or older.
• Flexible, mature, and responsible.
• Prior experience (3 months or more) working with young children, ages 3 months to 11 years (e.g., babysitting, camp counselor, etc.), preferred.
• Positive, upbeat, and energetic when working with babies, toddlers, and young children.
• Committed to ensuring children’s safety and upholding JCC values.
• CPR/AED and first aid certified or willing to be certified within the first two weeks of hire.

Skills

• Exceptional interpersonal and active listening skills.
• Professional and clear communication.
• Ability to manage situations effectively and diplomatically.
• Adaptability to evolving needs and circumstances.
• Quick and eager learner who takes initiative.
• Works well independently and collaboratively, building and sustaining relationships.
• Patient and caring.
• Ability to log hours on the Paylocity online system.

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift and carry objects weighing 15-40 pounds (e.g., boxes of supplies, snacks).
• Able to sit and kneel to interact with young children.

Benefits

• Free individual membership to JCC Greater Boston’s fitness, recreation, and wellness facility in Newton, including:
  • Access to group fitness classes and workout facilities.
  • Discounts on JCCGB events, classes, and outdoor pool.
  • Free wellness events.
• Supportive, vibrant, in-person work environment.
• High employee engagement ratings in team camaraderie, managerial support, and organizational alignment.

Pay

Competitive starting pay rate of $16-$19 per hour, determined by relevant qualifications, experience, and JCC’s internal equity.

Schedule

Limited part-time position, approximately 7 hours per week. Shifts are primarily weekend mornings from 8:30 a.m. to Noon, with occasional weekday opportunities.

About JCC Greater Boston

Since opening its doors in 1983, JCC Greater Boston has been committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and diverse community by nurturing meaningful, lasting relationships. Through early learning centers, day camps, teen and family programs, health and wellness offerings, and adult arts and ideas classes, JCC Greater Boston provides highly valued connections, learning, and experiences for the Jewish community and friends. Staff enjoy an innovative, friendly, and welcoming environment where their talents and contributions are appreciated.