Youth Development Specialist

Department: Operations · Reports to: Service Director · FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Part-time · Location: West Orange Branch, 459 9th Street, Winter Garden, FL 34787

About the Role

The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) supports Club Leadership in providing an Outcome-Driven Club Experience across Core Program Pillars: Academic Success and Career Development, Character and Leadership Development, Health and Life Skills, the Arts, Sports, Fitness and Recreation, and Social-Emotional Well-Being. This position works directly with youth, ensuring their safety, well-being, and development through interactive play and structured activities. The YDS is self-motivated, mature, energetic, and maintains clear, healthy boundaries with Club members, parents, staff, and volunteers. They communicate and interact with youth in an age-appropriate, motivational, and positive manner, adapting to a dynamic work environment, remaining calm, and solving problems in stressful situations.

Responsibilities

• Program Development and Implementation: Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate activities in the assigned program area. Maintain facilities, equipment, and supplies; report issues to the supervisor. Review program supply inventory and request orders promptly. Facilitate Club-specific and BGCA core programs as directed.
• Youth Development: Provide an active, engaged presence to prepare youth for success while creating a safe and healthy Club environment. Affirm positive behavior, deliver coaching conversations, and redirect when needed. Model and teach self-confidence and self-awareness while building supportive relationships.
• Program Administration: Collect and track Club member attendance, coursework, and behavior data. Participate in staff meetings and training events. Ensure a productive work environment.
• Daily Program Activities: Set up and clean program areas daily. Provide members with a daily program agenda and participation expectations. Ensure child and Club safety guidelines are followed. Facilitate activities aligned with BGCCF Core Program Pillars.
• Administration and Reporting: Manage administrative functions of program areas and assigned resources. Maintain proper record-keeping and reporting, including activities, daily participation, notable achievements, and any issues.
• Relationships:
  • Internal: Maintain daily contact with Club staff, Support Office personnel, volunteers, Club members, and supervisors to exchange information and address issues.
  • External: Cultivate long-term relationships with community partners, schools, and organizations to create a sustainable pipeline of volunteers. Engage with external groups to build collaborative efforts for volunteer support.
• Safety and Compliance: Uphold all child safety standards and Club policies. Promote a culture of safety and vigilance regarding potential risks during activities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; associate's degree in education, youth development, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working or volunteering with youth in an educational or developmental setting preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, develop, and implement high-quality, age-appropriate programs emphasizing academic success, character development, and healthy lifestyles.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a proven ability to motivate and inspire youth positively, fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth.
• Adaptability and willingness to support innovative ideas that benefit the Club and its members.
• Proficiency in trauma-informed, strengths-based problem-solving to guide youth in academic and personal development.
• Experience working with diverse cultures and backgrounds, demonstrating commitment to inclusivity and cultural competence.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with Club members, parents, staff, and community partners.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders.
• Basic proficiency in data collection and reporting, including tracking attendance, program participation, and member progress.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and participation in training opportunities.
• CPR and First Aid Certification preferred; willingness to obtain within the first 90 days of employment if not already certified.

Skills and Competencies

• Builds Positive Relationships: Creates and maintains strong, trusting connections with youth, colleagues, and stakeholders. Engages with young people in a fun, approachable manner while fostering a safe and supportive environment.
• Drives Engagement: Creates a climate where people are motivated to participate actively in programs and their academic development.
• Cultivates Innovation: Develops project-based learning and high-yield educational activities through creativity and innovative thinking.
• Plans and Aligns: Plans and prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals. Oversees program administration and evaluation to ensure alignment with the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs.
• Situational Adaptability: Adapts approach and demeanor in real time to match shifting demands, effectively engaging with diverse youth and responding to changing program needs.

Working Conditions

• Works in both indoor and outdoor environments, including office or facility settings, with exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and policy manuals.
• Must be able to perform CPR or first aid if needed.
• Works in environments frequented by children and families, requiring adherence to safety and conduct standards.
• Adaptable to a dynamic work schedule, including evenings and weekends, to support volunteer activities and events.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Physically capable of lifting up to 50 pounds, standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods, bending, and reaching.
• High energy level when necessary, with visual and auditory acuity to monitor the environment and ensure safety.
• Ability to reach, grasp, and manipulate supplies and tools; recognize and address classroom management issues.
• Physical dexterity and cognitive alertness to move safely around the classroom, monitor activities, prepare materials, and respond to member needs.
• Mental resilience to stay focused and effective in a busy, sometimes noisy environment.
• Capacity to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and adapt to changing daily plans.
• Ability to survey the environment and respond to safety concerns in the moment, demonstrating situational awareness and quick decision-making.
• Operates computers and office equipment such as copy machines, phones, printers, and tablets.
• Manages inventory and maintains accurate records of program supplies in diverse settings, including sports equipment, audiovisual devices, and art supplies.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact positively with volunteers, youth, community members, parents, and staff.
• Ability to take and follow verbal directions effectively and communicate clearly with youth, supervisors, and staff.
• Flexibility and adaptability in response to changing situations and requirements.

Pre-Employment and Ongoing Compliance

• Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• Must obtain and maintain a valid OCPS Vendor Badge.
• Continued employment contingent upon passing randomized drug screenings.
• Department of Children and Families Level II Background Check required.