Seaside Club Youth Engagement Specialist

Position Summary
Navigating the years from tween to teen and into adolescence has never been easy. In response to growing concerns about youth mental health and well-being, the Seaside Youth Club was created to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging space for middle school youth in Swampscott and surrounding communities.

Grounded in values of respect, inclusion, compassion, service, and kindness, the program welcomes youth of all faith backgrounds (and none). The Youth Engagement Specialist plays a key role in creating a positive and supportive environment where youth feel seen, valued, and connected.

This is a part-time, in-person role focused on direct engagement with youth during weekly programming, working collaboratively with the Director and Assistant Director.

Position Overview

The Youth Engagement Specialist is responsible for supporting the social, emotional, and behavioral environment of the program during Friday sessions. This role is highly relational and interactive, with a primary focus on building connections with youth, supporting activities, and helping maintain a safe and welcoming space. Unlike the Director and Assistant Director, this position does not involve direct parent communication outside of program hours.

Schedule

• Attendance at weekly youth sessions is required on Fridays 3:15 p.m. – 6:30 p.m and opportunity for additional hours in occasional special events
• Follow the Swampscott Middle School Academic Calendar

Primary Responsibilities

• Actively engage with youth during weekly meetings, fostering a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment
• Build positive relationships with students in grades 5–8th and encourage participation in activities
• Assist the Director and Assistant Director in executing planned activities, games, and discussions
• Brainstorm about program planning with Director and Assistant Director
• Help set up and clean up program spaces each week
• Reinforce Seaside Club norms, expectations, and community values
• Provide supervision and ensure the safety and well-being of all participants
• Observe and communicate any behavioral concerns, conflicts, or notable interactions to leadership staff
• Support conflict resolution and model respectful, inclusive behavior
• Assist with transitions between activities and help maintain group structure
• Take photos of activities (in accordance with permissions) and share them with church administrative staff for newsletters and communications
• Help maintain the Seaside Club bulletin board with updates, photos, etc.

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s, Associate’s degree, working towards a degree, and/or prior relevant experience
• Must be 18 years or older
• Experience working with children or adolescents
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to connect with middle school youth
• Positive, energetic, and approachable demeanor
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Strong awareness of appropriate boundaries and youth safety practices
• Reliable and consistent attendance

Qualifications Desired

• Experience in youth programs, camps, education, or mentoring
• Interest in youth development, education, or social-emotional learning
• Experience working with children

Professional Development & MentorshipThis position provides meaningful on-the-job training and mentorship in youth engagement and social-emotional development. Staff work closely with the Director, an experienced educator and youth program leader, and receive ongoing coaching, feedback, and support. This is an ideal opportunity for those beginning a career in education, counseling, or working with youth.

Benefits & Growth Opportunities

• Hands-on experience working with middle school youth in a supportive environment
• Ongoing mentorship and coaching from experienced program leadership
• Opportunity to develop skills in youth engagement, behavior support, and group facilitation
• Strong foundation for future careers in education, counseling, or youth services

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $22