What are the responsibilities and job description for the After School Counselor - Massey Ranch Elementary position at YMCA of Greater Houston?
Youth Development Counselor – Job Summary
We are seeking a caring and dependable team member to support before-school, after-school, and seasonal camp programs. This role focuses on creating a positive and engaging environment for children by leading activities, encouraging social development, and helping maintain a safe and welcoming space for all participants. The position supports the organization’s youth development goals and core values of honesty, respect, responsibility, caring, and faith.
Essential Responsibilities
Supervision & Safety
- Provide attentive supervision and support for all children throughout the program day.
- Monitor activities to help ensure safe, age-appropriate participation.
- Keep accurate attendance, conduct headcounts, and follow the program’s established safety routines.
- Respond appropriately to situations or concerns, following organizational guidelines.
Positive Behavior Support
- Use encouraging, constructive approaches to promote a respectful and inclusive group environment.
- Address behavioral concerns calmly and professionally using established practices.
Activity Facilitation
- Lead and support a variety of hands-on, age-appropriate activities — including both structured and free-choice options.
- Encourage positive peer interactions and meaningful engagement.
- Modify activities when needed to meet the varying interests and needs of children.
Program Standards & Daily Operations
- Follow organizational procedures related to health, safety, and general program expectations.
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming program space.
- Share concerns or updates with the Site Lead or Program Director as appropriate.
Leadership & Role Modeling
- Supervise and interact with children under the guidance of the Site Lead.
- Demonstrate professionalism and model the program’s values through words and actions.
- Support program expectations and help maintain a positive team environment.
Relationship Building
- Build warm, professional relationships with children, families, school personnel, and fellow staff.
- Participate in required staff meetings, trainings, and program events.
Youth Well-Being & Sign-In/Out Procedures
- Follow established procedures for children entering and leaving the program.
- Ensure that only approved individuals pick up children.
- Help monitor shared or high-traffic areas to maintain a safe and orderly environment.
Core Competencies
- Collaboration: Builds positive connections with colleagues and community partners.
- Communication: Shares information in a clear, friendly, and professional manner.
- Developing Self & Others: Seeks opportunities for growth and contributes to the development of others.
- Functional Expertise: Understands and applies youth program practices effectively.
- Inclusion: Welcomes all individuals and promotes an equitable environment.
- Program & Project Management: Supports program goals and ensures tasks are completed effectively.
Qualifications
- At least 18 years of age.
- High school diploma or GED.
- At least six months of experience working with children in a group or youth-focused setting (school, church, program, etc.).
- Ability to complete required safety and skills training (CPR, First Aid, AED, etc.).
- Strong ability to lead age-appropriate activities and support youth of varying backgrounds.
- Must meet organizational screening requirements.
- Health clearance requirements may apply depending on local regulations.
Knowledge & Skills
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Basic math skills used for attendance and simple recordkeeping.
- Ability to respond appropriately to routine situations and follow program routines.
- Comfortable with active movement including bending, kneeling, lifting, standing, and outdoor activities.
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs regularly and up to 50 lbs occasionally.
- Frequent movement including bending, standing, walking, and participating in activities with children.
- Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
- Normal visual, hearing, and motor abilities necessary to safely support program operations.
Work Environment
- Primarily indoors during after-school programming with some outdoor activity required.
- Exposure to typical youth program environments, including noise, activity, and occasional messes.
- Seasonal camp roles may involve extended outdoor activity, walking, swimming support, and participation in camp events.
Work Schedule
Afterschool Program
- Part-time, Monday–Friday, typically 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM (varies by school calendar).
Seasonal Camp
- Monday–Friday, schedules ranging between 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM depending on shift assignments.
Participation in family events, special programs, staff trainings, and meetings is required with advance notice.
Travel
- Primarily assigned to a designated site.
- Occasional travel to support nearby locations may be required.
Other Information
This description outlines key responsibilities but is not exhaustive. Duties may change based on program needs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and provide equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, religion, gender, orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $13.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $13