Find & Apply For Youth Counselor / Worker Jobs in Saint Joseph, Michigan

YMCA of Greater Michiana Job Title:

After School Support FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt Revision Date:

08/04/2026

Leadership Level :

Leader Primary Function:

Support

POSITION SUMMARY

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

OUR CULTURE

The YMCA of Greater Michiana exists to ensure every person has a sense of belonging, a place where they feel safe, supported, connected, and empowered to grow and thrive. We believe that when individuals experience belonging, they are more likely to develop healthy habits, strong character, meaningful relationships, and confidence in their future. Belonging is the foundation for personal growth, family stability, and stronger communities. The YMCA of Greater Michiana strictly follows a zero tolerance policy regarding child abuse.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ensures the safety and engagement of children in assigned groups.
• Assist in organizing and implementing a strategy for equipment use and accountability
• Supervise participants directly; keen in sight and sound at all times, never be alone with a child, and be aware of proximity and perimeter.
• Design and deliver purposeful and engaging program activities that are safe, fun, and age-appropriate while meeting program goal objectives (weekly lesson plans)
• Follows program lesson plans and implementation plans in a developmentally appropriate manner, meeting the individual physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs of the participants.
• Help with homework and encourage academic progress.
• Maintain a clean and orderly environment.
• Attend staff meetings as scheduled by the Youth Development Director
• When the Youth Development Director is not available, follow the chain of command to assist designated supervisors in carrying out the duties of the program.
• Serves as a positive role model, demonstrates professional behavior, and understands positive youth development approaches to the academic and social development of youth
• Facilitates a programming environment that invites exploration, promotes positive play, and welcomes children.
• Promotes a team concept through a positive approach to supervision, communication, and interactions with others. Maintains ongoing communication with supervisor.
• Maintain accurate classroom records as assigned and according to program requirements.
• Communicates regularly with parents; attends parent/family events as designated by supervisor.
• Demonstrates a working knowledge of YMCA mission, purpose and goals, childcare policies, and YMCA standards; ensures the program meets the highest standards of excellence.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

• Mission Advancement
• Collaboration
• Operational Effectiveness
• Personal Growth

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Ability to work independently with a group of children.
• Leads in excellence with assertive, respectful communication.
• Ability to handle and resolve conflicts.
• Positive attitude and flexible approach
• Dependable and punctual work ethics
• Ability to be adaptable, organized, patient, and enthusiastic.
• Alert at all times and have attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with leadership and program staff.
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED training through American Red Cross is required for all employees of the YMCA of Greater Michiana, this training will be offered at no cost.
• Associate degree in Education or related field of study preferred
• One year of experience with diverse youth populations preferred

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Minimum 80% standing and walking.
• Reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping in the performance of daily activities
• Duties require occasional lifting and/or moving up to 100 pounds.
• Physical ability to lead and participate in active program objectives.
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents.

Pay:

$14.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person