Youth Development Site Lead-Schmalz

About the Role

Join a team that’s shaping the next generation. At the YMCA, we’re more than an after‑school program provider—we’re a community dedicated to helping young people grow, learn, and thrive. As an Afterschool Site Lead you will serve as the primary leader for a licensed school‑age enrichment program, ensuring children are safe, supported, and engaged every day.

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

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment; conduct regular headcounts, monitor activities, maintain attendance records, and respond to emergencies in accordance with YMCA and state licensing requirements.
• Serve as the designated Texas Childcare Licensing Site Director, ensuring compliance with YMCA Houston and state regulations and standards.
• Oversee daily operations of the after‑school program, including set‑up and breakdown of activity centers, cleaning of the program area, and maintenance of site equipment.
• Supervise staff, ensure adherence to policies, and redirect as needed; maintain accurate records such as attendance, incident reports, and compliance documentation.
• Implement positive behavior management techniques, address behavioral issues calmly, and promote a respectful, inclusive environment.
• Conduct regular safety drills and inspections, ensure required postings are displayed, and follow all health, safety, child protection, and confidentiality policies.
• Plan and implement age‑appropriate structured and unstructured activities based on the YMCA curriculum; adapt activities to meet diverse needs and interests.
• Communicate regularly with parents about child progress, behavior, and concerns; address inquiries promptly and professionally.
• Maintain accurate enrollment and attendance records, including sign‑in sheets and daily rosters.
• Develop and execute strategies to promote program growth, increase enrollment, and retain participants; monitor enrollment trends and feedback for improvement.
• Plan and deliver lesson/activity plans that align with the YMCA program model, curriculum, and quality standards.
• Lead Youth Program Quality (YPQ) intervention process, using continuous monitoring to evaluate participation and program effectiveness.
• Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and follow mandated abuse and incident reporting requirements; enforce boundary policies and secure high‑risk areas.

Qualifications

• At least 21 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 70 clock hours of training in child or youth development, recreational leadership, or management (two college courses equal 100 clock hours).
• At least one year of experience working with youth in a licensed childcare facility, school, church, or similar setting.
• CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Abuse Prevention certifications (or ability to obtain).
• Ability to plan, organize, and implement age‑appropriate activities and programming.
• Experience working with diverse populations.
• Ability to pass state and local background checks and FBI fingerprinting requirements.
• Current TB test and any required health screenings or immunizations per state and local regulations.

Physical & Work Environment

This active leadership role requires regular movement throughout the program site, including standing, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, and participation in indoor and outdoor activities. The ability to lift up to 50 lb occasionally is required. Work environments include classrooms, cafeterias, playgrounds, gymnasiums, and outdoor recreation spaces, with exposure to varying weather conditions, moderate noise levels, and active youth programming. During camp seasons, Site Leads may transition to Youth Development Counselor responsibilities and participate in hiking, swimming, field trips, and extended periods of standing and walking.

Schedule

Before/After School Program: Part‑time, Monday–Friday, typically 6:30 am–8:30 am and/or 2:30 pm–6:30 pm (aligned with the ISD calendar). Occasional Saturdays may be required.

Camp Program: Monday–Friday, operating between 6:30 am–6:30 pm with multiple shift options (aligned with school district breaks). Occasional Saturdays may be required. Participation in family nights, staff meetings, trainings, and program events is required with advance notice.

Pay

Additional $3.00 per hour temporary stipend for eligible Youth Development Site Leads. The stipend is separate from base pay 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 opportunities.
• Leadership growth pathways within youth development and YMCA operations.
• Supportive, mission‑driven team environment.
• Flexible scheduling opportunities.
• Opportunities to make a lasting impact on the community and families.