What are the responsibilities and job description for the Elkhart Teen Youth Development Professional position at Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County?
Elkhart Youth Development Professional
Are you passionate about connecting with teens and helping them recognize their potential? Do you enjoy building relationships, creating engaging experiences, and being a positive influence for young people?
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County is looking for energetic, dependable individuals to work directly with middle and high school students in our teen programs. If you want a job where you can build meaningful connections, encourage young people, and make a difference in your community, OUR team is for you!
Job Summary:
The Teen Youth Development Professional works directly with middle and high school members to create a safe, welcoming, and engaging Club experience. This role provides active supervision, positive role modeling, mentoring, and support for programs designed specifically for teens.
Successful team members know how to connect with teens, meet them where they are, set appropriate boundaries, and encourage them to participate, grow, and develop into confident young adults.
Hours & Schedule
Hours and schedules vary depending on the position hired for.
Hours and schedules vary depending on the position hired for.
- Part-time positions, typically 20–30 hours per week
- Monday through Friday
- Typical shifts are between 2:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Teen Engagement & Relationship Building
- Build positive, supportive relationships with middle and high school members.
- Actively engage teens in conversation, activities, and Club programs.
- Serve as a positive role model and trusted adult while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
- Encourage teens to explore their interests, develop new skills, and take on leadership opportunities.
- Help create a Club environment where teens feel welcomed, respected, included, and excited to participate.
Member Safety & Supervision
- Actively supervise teen members and maintain awareness of program spaces and activities.
- Establish and reinforce clear, consistent behavioral expectations.
- Use positive, age-appropriate guidance and redirection when challenges arise.
- Monitor program spaces and promptly report safety concerns or incidents.
- Follow all Club supervision, safety, and emergency procedures.
Program Support
- Assist Lead Youth Development Professionals and Program Supervisors with teen-focused programs and activities.
- Support the setup, facilitation, and cleanup of daily programming.
- Encourage participation in activities related to recreation, leadership, education, career readiness, life skills, health and wellness, and other teen interests.
- Bring energy and enthusiasm to programs while encouraging teens to contribute their own ideas and interests.
- Follow established schedules, routines, and program plans.
Positive Culture & Role Modeling
- Model respectful, responsible, and positive behavior at all times.
- Encourage healthy decision-making, accountability, and positive peer relationships.
- Help teens navigate conflict and challenges in a constructive way.
- Reinforce character, leadership, and Club values through everyday interactions.
- Work collaboratively with other Club staff to create a consistent and positive experience for members.
Environment Care
- Help maintain clean, organized, and safe program spaces.
- Support proper use, storage, and care of equipment and supplies.
- Assist with transitions between activities and program areas.
- Ensure program areas are left ready for the next activity or group.
Required Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Bilingual Preferred
- Demonstrated ability to work with school-age youth (ages 5-18).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to follow direction and work as part of a team.
- Positive attitude, reliability, and willingness to learn.
- Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting up to 20 lbs and extended periods of standing or sitting.