Youth Development Specialist

Location: South Lake Branch, Clermont Arts & Recreation Bldg., 3700 South Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34711

Department: Operations | Reports to: Service Director | FLSA Status: Non-Exempt | Worker Category: Part-time

Position Summary

The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) supports Club Leadership in providing an Outcome-Driven Club Experience in a variety of programming areas that support our Core Program Pillars, including 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 other activities as directed. The YDS is self-motivated, mature, energetic, and able to maintain clear and healthy boundaries with Club members, parents, staff, and volunteers. They communicate and interact with youth in an age-appropriate, motivational, and positive manner. The YDS must be flexible, adapt to a changing work environment, remain calm, and solve problems in stressful situations while implementing all elements of activities in an organized fashion.

Responsibilities

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

Qualifications

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

Skills

• Builds Positive Relationships: Create and maintain strong, trusting connections with youth, colleagues, and stakeholders. Engage with young people in a fun, approachable manner while fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth.
• Drives Engagement: Create a climate where people are motivated to participate actively in programs and activities, supporting their academic development.
• Cultivates Innovation: Develop project-based learning and high-yield educational activities, requiring creativity and innovative thinking.
• Plans and Aligns: Plan and prioritize work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals, including program administration and evaluation.
• Situational Adaptability: Adapt approach and demeanor in real time to match shifting demands, effectively engaging with diverse youth and responding to changing program needs.

Environmental and Working Conditions

• Work in both indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating instructions, and policy manuals.
• Perform CPR or first aid if needed.
• Work in environments frequented by children and families, adhering to safety and conduct standards.
• Adapt to a dynamic work schedule, including evenings and weekends, to support volunteer activities and events.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Physically capable of performing activities on-site, including lifting up to 50 pounds, standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods, bending, and reaching.
• Ability to maintain a high energy level when necessary.
• Visual and auditory acuity to monitor the environment, ensure safety standards, and respond to immediate concerns.
• Physical dexterity and cognitive alertness to move safely around the classroom, monitor student activities, prepare materials, and respond promptly to member needs.
• Mental resilience and ability 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 skills.
• Operate a computer and other office productivity equipment (e.g., copy machine, phone, printer, tablet).
• Maintain various equipment and supplies in diverse settings, including sports equipment, audiovisual devices, art supplies, and other youth-related materials.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact positively with volunteers, youth members, 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.
• Occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions.

Pre-Employment and Ongoing Compliance Requirements

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