What are the responsibilities and job description for the Teen Engagement Specialist position at YMCA of Honolulu?
PAY RANGE:
$18.00 - $24.00 Hourly**
AVAILABLE LOCATIONS:
Engagement Specialists are responsible for designing and leading student-centered clubs and activities for youth in grades 6 through 12. In collaboration with YMCA leadership and program participants, the instructor creates engaging after-school experiences that reflect teen interests and promote youth voice and inclusion. Activities may include sports, leadership, e-sports, gardening, STEM, and other interest-based opportunities identified by students. Engagement Specialists are also encouraged to connect with community members and organizations that support student interests. This role plays a key part in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment that supports the goals of the program and encourages student growth.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/JOB DUTIES:
Skills/Knowledge:
The YMCA requires all staff to share responsibility for preventing child abuse by upholding professional boundaries, completing mandatory Praesidium training, and reporting concerns. All candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background screening, including criminal and sex offender checks.
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$18.00 - $24.00 Hourly**
AVAILABLE LOCATIONS:
- Nu'uanu YMCA
Engagement Specialists are responsible for designing and leading student-centered clubs and activities for youth in grades 6 through 12. In collaboration with YMCA leadership and program participants, the instructor creates engaging after-school experiences that reflect teen interests and promote youth voice and inclusion. Activities may include sports, leadership, e-sports, gardening, STEM, and other interest-based opportunities identified by students. Engagement Specialists are also encouraged to connect with community members and organizations that support student interests. This role plays a key part in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment that supports the goals of the program and encourages student growth.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/JOB DUTIES:
- Develop and lead student-centered clubs and programs that encourage cultural understanding, inclusion, and leadership
- Collaborate with YMCA leadership and community partners to offer afterschool activities aligned with teen interests
- Research and create new programs, workshops, and activities that support teen development and engagement
- Foster a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment aligned with program goals and values
- Support student success by offering consistent feedback and guidance tailored to individual needs
- Provide mentorship and oversight to junior staff as needed
- Contribute ideas for program improvement and actively participate in staff meetings and planning sessions
- Maintain accurate records, including student attendance, progress notes, and incident reports
- Assist with administrative responsibilities such as scheduling, managing supplies, and placing orders
- Participate in staff meetings and training sessions, remaining open to feedback and continuous learning
- Ensure respectful use of facilities and uphold all site rules and expectations for both staff and students
- Engage in ongoing quality improvement efforts to support program excellence and student outcomes
- Respond promptly and confidentially to any concerns or violations, following established disciplinary procedures
- Demonstrate knowledge of the YMCA’s mission, values, and standards, and ensure all programming reflects these principles
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support program success
Skills/Knowledge:
- 6 months or more experience engaging middle and high school youth in recreation, leadership, service learning, civic engagement, college and career readiness, and other personal growth areas
- Strong understanding of teen development, group dynamics, and group management
- Demonstrates mature judgment, strong decision-making skills, and professionalism
- Collaborative and adaptable, values youth voice, and supports programming even outside personal areas of expertise
- Excellent interpersonal skills; organized, multitask-oriented, and customer service focused
- Leads by example and models professionalism for peers and team members
- Builds authentic, positive relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds
- Proficient in Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and Canva; able to learn and operate other required software
- Experience teaching and facilitating academic instruction required
- Strong communication and organizational skills required
- Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field preferred
- Current certification in language arts or mathematics education is preferred
- General office operations experience preferred
- CPR, AED, and First Aid certified (training available upon hire)
- Free Y membership with employment
- Referral bonuses - Y employees can earn cash or Y credit bonuses for referring a new hire*
- Up to 60% discounts for yourself, family, and even your siblings on Y programs, camps, preschool, childcare, and more
The YMCA requires all staff to share responsibility for preventing child abuse by upholding professional boundaries, completing mandatory Praesidium training, and reporting concerns. All candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background screening, including criminal and sex offender checks.
- See job opportunities page for full details
- This position and its pay are dependent on the availability of funds and continuation of the contracted program. The current contract provides programming for August 2025 - July 2026 with the likely possibility of extension for an additional year (until July 2027)
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Salary : $18 - $24