School Age Childcare Counselor

The Summit Area YMCA is looking for caring, dependable, and energetic individuals to join our School Age Childcare team for the 2026–2027 school year. Our program provides safe, engaging, and enriching care before and after the school day at multiple locations.

About the Role

We are hiring Afterschool Counselors at our Berkeley Heights YMCA, Summit YMCA, and elementary school sites in Berkeley Heights and New Providence. We are also hiring Before Care Counselors for our programs at the Berkeley Heights YMCA and Salt Brook & Allen W. Roberts Elementary Schools.

This is a rewarding part-time opportunity for those who enjoy working with elementary-aged children and want to make a positive impact in their community.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and actively engage children in safe, age-appropriate activities.
• Plan and lead games, crafts, STEM activities, sports, homework support, and other enriching experiences.
• Create a fun, welcoming environment that supports learning, friendships, and confidence.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants through active supervision.
• Promote positive behavior and serve as a caring role model.
• Maintain attendance records, incident documentation, and other required program records.
• Communicate professionally with families and YMCA staff.
• Help keep program spaces clean, organized, and ready for daily activities.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.

Qualifications

You might be the right fit if you:

• Love working with elementary-aged children.
• Bring enthusiasm, creativity, and a positive attitude every day.
• Enjoy leading games, crafts, sports, and hands-on activities.
• Are patient, dependable, and able to build positive relationships with children and families.
• Communicate effectively with children, parents, and coworkers.
• Stay calm, flexible, and solution-focused in a fast-paced environment.
• Value teamwork, inclusion, and creating a welcoming environment for every child.

Requirements

• Experience working with children in a school, childcare, camp, recreation, or similar setting preferred.
• Passion for working with elementary-aged children and supporting their growth and development.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while maintaining a safe and positive environment.
• Must complete all required NJCCIS training prior to working independently.
• Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications, or the ability to obtain them within 90 days of hire.

Schedule

We are hiring for one or both of the following shifts:

• Before Care Counselor
  Monday–Friday
  6:50 AM–8:30 AM
  Berkeley Heights YMCA or Salt Brook & Allen W. Roberts Elementary School
• Afterschool Counselor
  Monday–Friday
  2:30 PM–6:00 PM
  Summit YMCA, Berkeley Heights YMCA, and elementary school sites in Berkeley Heights and New Providence

Programs follow the local school calendar. Staff may also have opportunities to work Holiday Care programs during scheduled school breaks.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $17.50–$20.00 per hour, based on experience.

Benefits

• Free YMCA individual membership
• Discounted YMCA family membership
• 50% discount on eligible YMCA programs, including child care and summer camp
• 12% YMCA Retirement Fund contribution upon eligibility
• Flexible school-year scheduling
• Paid training and professional development
• Opportunities for advancement within the YMCA

About the Summit Area YMCA

Founded in 1886, the Summit Area YMCA is one of the area’s leading nonprofits, committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. We focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives, and generations, we ensure that everyone has access to the opportunities, relationships, and resources necessary to learn, grow, and thrive.