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Youth Development Director

YMCA of Metro North
Melrose, MA Full Time
POSTED ON 4/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/7/2026

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Senior Program Director, the Youth Development Director is responsible for the planning, development, implementation, expansion, and evaluation of youth programs, sports classes and family events, including oversight of the summer day camp program (Camp Melstone). The primary objective of this role is to create and deliver meaningful programs and services that support and advance the YMCA’s mission.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Leadership, Program Support & Staff Development

  • Plan, develop, and oversee all operations within the Youth Development Department. 
  • Demonstrate a strong understanding of community needs and represent the YMCA in a positive and professional manner, with a focus on youth and teen development. 
  • Provide a minimum of 24 hours of direct service per week, including teaching classes, coaching teams, facilitating games, leading rental groups, and developing middle school and teen initiatives. 
  • Provide ongoing mentorship and professional development to staff, ensuring they adhere to YMCA  standards and performance expectations.
  • Coordinate all aspects of youth and adult sports programming, including planning, scheduling, and program management. 
  • Oversee and manage all summer camp operations, including hiring, onboarding, training, supervision, daily scheduling, and coordinating special activities.
  • Oversee gymnasium operations, sports equipment, and facility rentals related to program areas. 
  • Provide oversight to all aspects of the Birthday Party Program, including scheduling, payments, and day-of coordination. 
  • Develop and implement engaging curriculum for sports and enrichment programs across all age groups (preschool through adult).
  • Ensure high-quality customer service and positive relationships with members, participants, and staff, maintain program quality, safety, and adherence to registration policies. 
  • Assist in managing the department’s operating budget, including purchasing equipment and program supplies. 
  • Administer payroll for direct reports. 
  • Working with branch leadership, identify community needs and community partner opportunities to expand existing programs and develop new offerings.
  • Responsible for training compliance for direct staff team

 Team Participation

  • Serve as Manager on Duty as required. 
  • Support fundraising initiatives and events for the YMCA’s annual campaign. 
  • Partner with the Facilities Director to ensure a safe environment for staff and participants. 
  • Collaborate with department leaders to provide timely program information to the marketing team for promotional materials. 
  • Work collaboratively with other YMCA of Metro North Directors to support association-wide initiatives and ensure program alignment.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience preferred. 
  • Minimum of two years of related administrative and direct service experience. 
  • Must be at least 21 years of age. 
  • Required certifications/training: Child Abuse Prevention, Bloodborne Pathogens, CPR, First Aid, AED, and any additional required YMCA trainings. 
  • Ability to effectively engage with diverse populations across all social and economic backgrounds. 
  • Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed. 
  • Proven leadership ability, strong fiscal management skills, and expertise in crisis intervention and conflict resolution.
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety, inclusion, and youth development.


 RISK MANAGEMENT & SAFETY

  • Ensure 100% compliance with Massachusetts Department of Public Health (105 CMR 430)and YMCA safety protocols.
  • Conduct frequent, documented safety audits and "Major Incident" reviews to proactively identify and mitigate hazards.
  • Oversee the accurate maintenance of all campers' medical records, staff certifications, attendance logs, and incident reports.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for emergency services and lead the camp’s emergency response team during all drills or live incidents.
  • Model and enforce the highest standards of professional boundaries and child supervision.
  • Complete mandatory abuse prevention training.
  • Report any concerns, incidents, or suspected abuse immediately in accordance with mandated reporting requirements.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES (TEAM LEADER)

Mission Advancement: Models and promotes the YMCA’s values. Demonstrates a commitment to service and community impact. Supports volunteer engagement through training, development, and recognition. Builds relationships to support fundraising efforts.

Collaboration: Promotes inclusion and fosters a sense of community. Builds strong relationships and communicates effectively across diverse groups. Provides staff with coaching, feedback, and support while addressing conflict constructively.

Operational Effectiveness: Develops and implements effective systems and processes. Manages budgets responsibly and ensures program quality. Holds staff accountable for achieving measurable outcomes and continuous improvement.

Personal Growth: Demonstrates adaptability and openness to change. Addresses sensitive issues with professionalism. Maintains up-to-date knowledge and technical skills, utilizing best practices and technology effectively.


Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive nationwide background check, as well as annual Massachusetts CORI and SORI clearances in compliance with state regulations.


Salary : $61,000 - $68,000

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