Teen Development Specialist

Description

Position Title: Teen Development Specialist

Performance Profile: Front Line

Department: Teen Department

Work Location: Albany or Troy Clubhouse

Reports to: Regional Director of Programs

Salary Range: $16/hour

Hours & Schedule: 15-25 hours per week, Monday-Friday (3PM - 8PM)

Classification: Part-time, Non-Exempt

Part-Time Benefits: Sick leave, Supplemental health and dental insurance, New York Paid Family Leave benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and eligibility for additional third-party discounts.

Organizational Values

At the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area (BGCCA), you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll be part of our mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Our team collaborates to ensure that youth in the Capital Area have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in today’s fast-paced environment.  

Overview of Your Role

The primary function of the Teen Development Specialist will be to create a positive and engaging environment for teens at our clubhouses. This position involves supervising and interacting with teens in various areas, including the gym, game room, and computer lab. The ideal candidate will be a role model, fostering personal growth, leadership, and responsibility while facilitating fun and educational programs.

Key Job Responsibilities:

The following non-exhaustive list of job duties required for this position:

• Supervise and engage with teens in designated areas, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment
• Build positive relationships with teens, acting as a mentor and role model
• Facilitate and support structured programs, classes, and activities that promote personal development, leadership, and teamwork
• Encourage participation in Boys & Girls Club programs, fostering a sense of belonging
• Promote respect, inclusivity, and good sportsmanship among teens
• Enforce club rules and safety policies while maintaining a friendly and approachable demeanor
• Collaborate with other staff members to create and implement engaging teen activities
• Assist with daily setup and cleanup of program areas
• Attend and participate in department meetings and trainings
• Model and guide youth in strengths-based problem solving, goal setting and study skills

RELATIONSHIPS:

Internal: Maintains close, daily contact with Club staff (professional and volunteer), Club youth, and supervisor to receive/provide information, discuss issues, explain guidelines and instructions; instruct; and advise/counsel

External: Support external contact as instructed with community groups, schools, members' parents, public stakeholders, and others as directed by the supervisor. Maintain a good reputation and uphold moral conduct both at work and in the community, as well as on social media networks.

Requirements

CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

Education and Experience:

• Required - High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Experience working with youth or teens in a recreational, educational, or mentorship setting is preferred
• Experience working within diverse cultures preferred
• Understanding of youth development principles, ability to motivate youth in a positive way

Required Certifications:

• CPR and First Aid certifications (preferred, required within 6 months of hire date)

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
• Proficient with Google Office Suite or related software
• Friendly, open-minded, and able to connect with diverse youth
• Ability to set a positive example and provide guidance to teens
• Comfortable leading activities and facilitating discussions
• Group leadership skills, including an understanding of group dynamics
• Ability to be flexible and adapt in a work environment that changes often
• Must be reliable, responsible, and able to work independently
• Must pass a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting, child abuse clearance, and sex offender registry check, as required by BGCCA

Work environment:

• Youth development environment with moderate to high noise levels from teen activities. Indoor clubhouse setting with standard temperature control. The position works with youth and adults, providing regular exposure to recreational activities. May work both indoors and outdoors depending on programming needs.

Travel required:

• Minimal travel required - occasional attendance at off-site training sessions or teen activities.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing/walking for up to 5 hours per day
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds
• Fine motor coordination for computer work
• Regular verbal communication with children, staff, and parents
• Visual acuity to monitor children's activities and safety

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Persons from diverse backgrounds, including communities of color, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community, are encouraged to apply.