Best Buy Teen Tech Center Counselor

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Best Buy Teen Tech Center Director, the Best Buy Teen Tech Center Counselor is responsible for supervising, engaging, and mentoring teens while facilitating safe, educational, and creative experiences with technology. This position plays a key role in program implementation, behavior management, and fostering a positive learning environment, in alignment with the YMCA’s mission and values.

Culture Statement

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core principles. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose to love, serve and transform lives. Every day we show up to Lead with Love and Serve with Purpose. 

We Love unconditionally – showing genuine care and concern for everyone, making each interaction meaningful and personal and ensuring every person feels valued, seen and welcomed. We elevate Hope – promoting optimism by offering encouragement and practical solutions to challenges. We act with Care & Compassion – listening attentively without judgment, responding with empathy, and creating a sense of belonging by uplifting and supporting those around us. We demonstrate Generosity – sharing our time, skills, and resources freely and with joy.

We walk in Grace – showing patience and kindness, even in difficult moments. We ignite Faith – staying grounded in our mission, principles and purpose, inspiring others to trust in what is possible. Demonstrating consistency in our actions, helping others see how their efforts align with a greater purpose. We treasure Honesty – communicating openly and truthfully, admitting mistakes when they occur, and honoring commitments. We honor Humility – leading with a servant's heart by prioritizing the needs of others above our own. 

We live with Joy – celebrating small and big wins alike, inspiring connection and shared joy. We offer Respect – addressing everyone by name and honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We value Responsibility – performing every task timely with diligence and excellence and holding ourselves accountable by openly evaluating our performance. We engage in Service – going above and beyond in serving others by anticipating needs and delivering exceptional experiences.

Essential Functions

• Plan and implement fun, challenging, and age-appropriate technology-based programming for teens.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants while promoting responsible technology use.
• Educate participants on online privacy, cybersecurity, and safe digital practices, including avoiding phishing scams and oversharing personal information.
• Assist the Center Director with daily attendance tracking and compliance with program guidelines.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and assist in the cleaning and upkeep of technology and program space.
• Manage and monitor supplies, inventory, and technology within the center.
• Build positive relationships with teens, parents, YMCA personnel, and community partners.
• Support staff in achieving program goals and operational standards.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development.
• Assist with administrative tasks, record-keeping, and communication efforts.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 18 years of age at time of application.
• Proficiency in technology, social media, and computer systems with a willingness to learn.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with an interest in working with teens.
• Ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances in a dynamic environment.
• Commitment to YMCA safety training and certifications within required timeframes.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Preferred Qualifications

• One year of college coursework or a degree in a related field.
• Experience in youth programming, supervision, or mentoring.
• Ongoing training or certifications related to technology and/or the arts.

Working Conditions

• Ability to stand, walk, sit, kneel, and bend for extended periods.
• Must maintain alertness for several hours while engaging with participants.
• Work may include irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Frequent interaction with teens in a fast-paced, technology-driven environment.
•  Fluent English communication required (written and verbal).

Competencies

1. INCLUSION: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence.
2. COMMUNICATION & INFLUENCE: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause.
3. EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.
4. ENGAGING COMMUNITY: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y’s work is community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit.

To learn more about our Y-USA Leadership Competencies, please click here.