Afterschool Counselor-Northeast Community YMCA

Afterschool Childcare Counselor | Inspire, Lead & Make Every Afternoon Count

Do you love working with kids? Are you passionate about education, mentorship, and making a difference every day? Join the YMCA as an Afterschool Childcare Counselor and turn your enthusiasm into a rewarding career where every afternoon is an opportunity to inspire, encourage, and help children thrive.

At the YMCA, we're committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As an Afterschool Childcare Counselor, you'll help create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where children can learn, build confidence, develop friendships, and discover new interests—all while making a lasting impact on the families in your community.

What You'll Be Doing

• Supervise and actively engage a group of children in the Afterschool Childcare Program.

• Lead fun, educational, and age-appropriate activities that reflect YMCA values and promote child development.

• Create a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally responsive environment for every child.

• Maintain program safety, cleanliness, and organization at all times.

• Follow YMCA policies and procedures related to health, safety, behavior management, emergencies, and child abuse prevention.

• Build positive relationships with children, families, coworkers, and school staff.

• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

• Support all-day camps during select school closures, with shifts scheduled between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Program Hours:

• Monday-Friday: 2:00 PM-6:30 PM

• School closure camps: Shifts scheduled between 7:00 AM-6:00 PM

Why This Job Is a Great Fit

Every day is different at the YMCA. Whether you're helping with homework, leading games, encouraging creativity, or simply being a positive role model, your work has a direct impact on children and families in your community. This role is an excellent opportunity for individuals pursuing careers in education, recreation, youth development, social work, or childcare—or anyone who enjoys helping children succeed.

Perks & Benefits

• Free YMCA membership for you and eligible household members

• 50% discounts on many YMCA programs, including swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps, and more

• Flexible scheduling to help balance work, school, and life

• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the YMCA

• Work for a mission-driven organization that invests in its employees and the community

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years old.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• College coursework in education, recreation, physical education, child development, or a related field is preferred.

• Previous experience in childcare, education, recreation, teaching, or youth programming is preferred.

• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.

• Strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.

• Passion for creating positive experiences for children.

Required Certifications & Screenings:

• Successful completion of a background check and Child Abuse & Neglect screening.

• Obtain and maintain First Aid, CPR, and AED certification prior to the start date through YMCA-approved providers.

• Complete all required online training modules before employment and annually thereafter.