TOWN OF ELLINGTON YOUTH SERVICES DEPARTMENT YOUTH PROGRAM LEAD POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Youth Services Director and the direct supervision of the Assistant Youth Services Director, the Youth Program Lead assists with the planning, implementation, coordination, and supervision of youth, teen, and family programs. The position provides direct leadership and supervision to program participants, staff, and volunteers; assists with program development and administrative responsibilities; and supports the mission of the Youth Services Department by fostering positive youth development in a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are representative of the position. Additional duties may be assigned as needed. Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and performance feedback to high school student employees, program assistants, instructors, and volunteers. Mentor student employees and assist them with planning and implementing programs. Assist the Assistant Youth Services Director with developing, implementing, and promoting youth, teen, and family programming. Assist with recruiting program instructors whose experience and approach align with the mission of Ellington Youth Services. Supervise youth participants, program assistants, instructors, and volunteers during on-site and off-site programs and activities. Assist with developing program curricula, schedules, activities, and instructional materials. Promote Youth Services programs through email communications, flyers, social media, and other outreach efforts. Monitor program supplies and equipment, maintain inventory, and recommend purchases as needed. Maintain accurate attendance records, participant information, program documentation, and incident reports. Promote and model the mission, values, and philosophy of the Town of Ellington Youth Services Department. Perform other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of positive youth development principles and effective youth programming practices. Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with youth, families, school personnel, volunteers, and community partners. Ability to provide leadership, direction, and supervision to youth participants, seasonal staff, and volunteers. Ability to maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for participants of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Ability to recognize, assess, and appropriately respond to emergencies, behavioral concerns, and crisis situations. Ability to exercise sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Ability to maintain the confidentiality of participant and departmental information. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, email platforms, social media, and other standard office software.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work is performed in office, school, community, and outdoor settings. The position requires the ability to: Sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, reach, and climb stairs. Participate in recreational and program activities. Lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds. Operate a motor vehicle. Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Perform duties involving frequent interaction with the public and youth participants. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or equivalent. Must be at least 18 years of age. At least six months of experience working in youth programming, recreation, education, human services, or a closely related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Valid Connecticut driver's license and an acceptable driving record. Current First Aid and CPR certification, or the ability to obtain certification within six months of employment. Successful completion of required background and reference checks.

WORK SCHEDULE

This is a temporary, part-time position anticipated to run from September through May. The typical work schedule is Monday through Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Additional hours, including evenings, weekends, school vacations, special events, programs, and training sessions, may be required based on departmental needs. Flexibility in scheduling is required. Employment in this position does not guarantee continued or permanent employment. The employee may be eligible to apply for future Town opportunities for which they meet the required qualifications.