After School Counselor

Imagine being part of one of the most respected human services organizations in the world—a place where your work positively influences the lives of others, a place where you thrive in a values-based environment, a place where you are building a better future for yourself and your community.

General Function:

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, and in harmony with the mission and purpose of the established policies and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas, the School Age Counselor is responsible for delivering the school age program to an assigned group of students.  With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the School Age Counselor will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests, and staff.

Qualifications:

1. Minimum of 18 years of age.
2. High School diploma or equivalent required.
3. Six months experience working with children required.
4. Proof of a negative TB test within the last 2 years.
5. Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2 required within 30 days.
6. Medication Administration Training (MAT) Certification may be required. 
7. Complete and maintain required trainings to include but not limited to: New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually thereafter.
8. Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check, Virginia State Police background check, and Child Protective Services check.

Essential Functions:

1. Support the mission, vision and goals of the YMCA.
2. Promote a professional work environment through character development by modeling the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
3. Lead in a manner that advances our cause to strengthen the foundations of community through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
4. Be directly responsible for the supervision, behavior management and safety of an assigned group of students. Maintain sight and sound supervision.
5. Maintain accurate attendance records and other records as assigned.
6. Prepare and clean up needed supplies and materials for daily activities.
7. Actively participate in organized games and activities, including but not limited to, swimming, teambuilding activities, and arts and crafts.
8. With the assistance of the School-Age Director or designated supervisor, communicate with parents regarding student’s needs and report daily activities.
9. Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
10. Follow Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers and department Platinum standards.
11. Wear staff uniform and name tag, or professional attire when appropriate.
12. Act as a leader in emergency situations. Report any accidents or incidents according to Emergency Communication Action Plan.
13. Ensure all members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and actively follow branch Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
14. Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Youth and Family Services Department and branch operations to ensure and excellent member experience.

YMCA Competencies (Leader):
Engaging Community, Communication & Influence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Functional Expertise

Skills and Ability Requirements:

1. Ability to communicate and work with assigned ages and skill levels and provide necessary instruction to students.
2. Ability to observe student’s behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
3. Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to assigned activities.
4. Physical strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of students.
5. Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. 

Effect on End Results:

1. The membership growth and retention plan for the center is achieved.
2. A high degree of member satisfaction is achieved as measured by Net Promoters.
3. A positive image of the YMCA is portrayed to members, staff, volunteers and the community.
4. A pleasant and comfortable working environment is maintained for all staff.
5. Relationships are strengthened through intentional interactions.
6. The facility will be safe, clean and an enjoyable place as measured by Q Checks and Risk Management Audits.
7. Superior quality standards are met as evidenced by department’s Association Standards Audit Score.

Excellent benefits, including 12% retirement upon meeting the requirements of the National YMCA Retirement Fund.  Includes YMCA Adult Membership.