Youth Development Counselor-Jenks

About the Role

Join a team that’s shaping the next generation. At the YMCA, we’re more than a childcare provider; we’re a community dedicated to helping young people grow, learn, and thrive. This role offers the chance to inspire children every day while building meaningful relationships with families and fellow staff.

Responsibilities

• Champion safety and supervision by keeping children safe, engaged, and accounted for at all times, monitoring activities, conducting headcounts, and responding confidently to any situation using YMCA policies and training.
• Guide positive behavior using inclusive, positive behavior‑management techniques that help children grow socially and emotionally.
• Lead fun and meaningful activities by bringing the YMCA curriculum to life through games, projects, and hands‑on learning, adapting activities to meet diverse needs and interests.
• Model YMCA values—honesty, respect, responsibility, caring, and faith—in all interactions.
• Support daily operations by maintaining a clean, organized, and safe program space that meets YMCA and state licensing standards.
• Build strong relationships with children, families, school staff, and the YMCA team to create a positive, collaborative community.
• Protect youth by following all child‑protection policies, ensuring proper sign‑in/out procedures, and maintaining vigilant supervision of all program areas.

Requirements

• At least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Six months of experience working with youth in a licensed facility, school, church, or similar setting.
• CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Abuse Prevention training (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to plan and lead age‑appropriate activities.
• Experience working with diverse populations.
• Ability to pass state/local background checks and fingerprinting.
• TB test and any required immunizations per state/local guidelines.
• Clear, positive communication skills.
• Ability to engage groups of youth.
• Strong decision‑making and problem‑solving abilities.
• Commitment to inclusion and cultural competence.
• Team‑oriented mindset.
• Desire to grow and help others grow.

Physical & Work Environment

This is an active, hands‑on role. You’ll be moving, playing, leading activities, and occasionally lifting up to 50 lb. Work takes place both indoors and outdoors, including exposure to weather, noise, and the joyful chaos of youth programs. Day Camp roles will include outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and extended periods of standing or walking.

Schedule

• Before/After School Program: Part‑time, Monday–Friday, typically 2:30 pm–6:30 pm (aligned with ISD calendar); occasional Saturdays.
• Day Camp Program: Monday–Friday, 6:30 am–6:30 pm with multiple shift options (aligned with ISD breaks); occasional Saturdays.
• Participation in family nights, staff meetings, and trainings is required with advance notice.

Pay

Earn an additional $3.00 per hour stipend for Youth Development Counselors working in our Before/After School Programs serving Katy ISD, Conroe ISD, and Humble ISD. This temporary stipend is separate from base pay, available only to employees assigned to eligible locations, and may be modified or discontinued based on organizational needs and funding availability.

Benefits

• Free YMCA membership.
• Discounts on YMCA programs.
• Paid training and professional development.
• Leadership growth pathways within youth development and beyond.
• A supportive, mission‑driven team environment.
• Flexible schedules.
• Opportunities to make a lasting impact on the community and families.