Youth Development Counselor - Weekley On-site Program

Brief Description

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. If you’re enthusiastic, responsible, and ready to make a real impact, this role offers the chance to inspire children every day while building meaningful relationships with families and fellow staff.

About the role

As a Youth Development Leader, you’ll bring energy, creativity, and compassion to our before/after-school and day camp programs. You’ll help create a safe, fun, and enriching environment where youth feel supported, valued, and excited to learn.

Responsibilities

• Keep children safe, engaged, and accounted for at all times.
• Monitor activities, conduct headcounts, and respond confidently to any situation using YMCA policies and training.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive environment by using positive behavior-management techniques that help children grow socially and emotionally.
• Bring the YMCA curriculum to life through games, projects, and hands-on learning.
• Adapt activities to meet the diverse needs and interests of every child.
• Demonstrate honesty, respect, responsibility, caring, and faith in everything you do.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe program space that meets YMCA and state licensing standards.
• Connect with children, families, school staff, and your YMCA team to create a positive, collaborative community.
• Follow all child-protection policies, ensure proper sign-in/out procedures, and maintain 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

Qualifications

• Clear, positive communication
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to inclusion and cultural competence
• Team-oriented mindset
• Desire to grow and help others grow

Skills That Help You Shine

• Physical & Work Environment Expectations
• This is an active, hands-on role. You’ll be moving, playing, leading activities, and occasionally lifting up to 50 lbs.
• 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.
• Typical 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.

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

Pay

N/A

Schedule

N/A

Benefits

The YMCA of Greater Houston provides Equal Employment Opportunities for employment to all employees and applicants, including disability and protected veteran status.