Program Specialist, After School Programming (P/T, M-F 2:30-6pm) (F/T Summer HRS)

The Salvation Army is a faith-based organization and the largest non-profit provider of social services in the United States. The Salvation Army Brooklyn Brownsville Corps provides church services, food pantry, day care, and after school programming. Under the direct supervision of the Middle School Program Director and the Corps Officers, the Program Specialist will run daily activities in the middle school-aged programming including but not limited to: homework help, serving meals and snacks, sports, music and arts, arts and crafts, creative arts, off-site field trips, and general day-to-day supervision of the children. In addition, the Program Specialist will perform administrative duties, including but not limited to: record keeping, statistics, enrollment paperwork, food service documentation, grant funding paperwork, and other responsibilities as assigned. The Program Specialist will be required to provide support to the Program Director and should be experienced and qualified to assume greater leadership responsibility in the absence of the Program Director when necessary.

Schedule

During the school year (September–June), the position is Monday through Friday, 2:00 PM–6:00 PM. For the seven weeks of summer break, the position transitions to a full day to accommodate summer day camp, for a total of 35 hours per week. This is an in-person role with required regional travel for field trips with children. Availability for part-time hours on school days and full-time hours on non-school days (school holidays and summer) is required.

Responsibilities

• Involvement in the total program with willingness to help in all areas as needed, including the classroom, dining room, outdoor/indoor activities, and daily assembly.
• Promote observance of the moral and ethical code affecting children and staff.
• Complete orientation sessions and attend all parent meetings.
• Attend and contribute to Program Leadership Meetings.
• Help plan and conduct General Staff Meetings.
• Share with the Program Director and/or Corps Officers all matters of mutual concern relating to the total welfare of the Middle School Program.
• Complete a debrief at the end of the school year and summer camp session to include areas of concern for the following program year.
• Assist with Corps programming as directed by the Program Director and Corps Officers.
• Assist and support other activities as needed or instructed by the Corps Officers, such as seasonal programs (Back-to-school supply drive, toy drive, coat drive, etc.).
• Assist the Program Director in advancing the mission of The Salvation Army by identifying children and families in need of additional services and connecting them to the Corps Officers.
• Serve as a positive role model.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; Associate’s Degree preferred.
• At least 3 years of experience in youth or camp programming and the ability to teach and enthuse others preferred.
• Willingness and comfort leading students and families in devotions from the Bible preferred, but not required.
• High energy, enthusiasm, and a love of working with children.
• Strong writing and verbal communication skills.
• Professional demeanor and strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Attention to detail and follow-through.
• Critical thinking and decision-making skills, displaying good judgment and ability to complete work independently.
• Collaborative attitude and ability to work with others in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate and work with groups of various ages and skill levels and provide necessary instruction to program participants and/or staff.
• Comfort working with children with behavioral challenges, learning differences, etc.
• Leadership experience with peers and experience in leadership of organized/specialized programming.
• Current CPR & First Aid certifications, or willingness to become certified.
• Physical ability to respond appropriately and quickly to situations requiring first aid.
• Driver’s license preferred.