Out of School Time Group Leaders - Cape Ann YMCA

Job DetailsJob Location: Glen T MacLeod Cape Ann YMCA - Gloucester, MA 01930Position Type: Part TimeSalary Range: $17.00 - $21.00 HourlyJob Shift: After SchoolNow Hiring: Group Leader – Out of School Time Programs

Are you passionate about working with children and creating positive experiences that help them learn, grow, and thrive? Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in your community while building valuable leadership and youth development skills? If so, the YMCA of the North Shore may be the perfect fit for you.

We are seeking enthusiastic and caring Group Leaders to join our Out-of-School-Time team in Cape Ann. In this role, you will help create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where children can build friendships, develop confidence, and have fun before and after school.

As a Group Leader, you will play an active role in planning activities, supporting children's development, and ensuring a high-quality program experience. Successful candidates are energetic, dependable, and committed to fostering a welcoming environment for children and families.

What You'll Do

Support Child Development

Create a positive and inclusive environment that supports children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth
Welcome and orient children and families to the program
Build meaningful relationships with participants and encourage positive behavior
Ensure all children feel safe, valued, and included

Plan & Lead Activities

Develop and implement age-appropriate activities and lesson plans
Lead games, enrichment activities, creative projects, and group experiences
Adapt activities to meet the diverse needs and interests of participants
Provide weekly lesson plans to the Site Coordinator

Ensure Safety & Program Quality

Maintain active supervision of children at all times
Follow YMCA policies, licensing regulations, and safety procedures
Respond appropriately to emergencies and incidents
Maintain accurate attendance and program documentation

Communicate & Collaborate

Foster positive relationships with parents and guardians
Communicate important information regarding participants with the Site Coordinator
Work collaboratively with fellow staff members to create a successful program environment
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities

Maintain a Positive Environment

Help keep program spaces organized, safe, and welcoming
Monitor equipment and facilities and report any concerns to the Site Coordinator
Model the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility in all interactions

Why Work at the Y?

Free YMCA membership and employee discounts on programs
Paid training and professional development
Opportunities for advancement across YMCA of the North Shore locations
Retirement plan with a 12% employer contribution (once vested, no match required)
Sick time accrual
Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Who Should Apply?

This position is ideal for individuals interested in education, child development, recreation, social work, psychology, or anyone who enjoys making a positive impact in the lives of children.

Join the YMCA of the North Shore and help create meaningful experiences for children every day.
Qualifications 

Must be at least 18 years of age
High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required
Must meet all licensing requirements for a Group Leader as established by the applicable licensing agency
Demonstrated understanding of child growth and development, with the ability to apply developmentally appropriate practices when working with children
Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills
Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment for children and families

Requirements

Must successfully complete all required fingerprinting and background screening requirements prior to employment
Must maintain all required documentation and certifications within the employee file as required by licensing agencies
Must complete all required trainings, certifications, and program orientation in accordance with licensing regulations and YMCA of the North Shore standards
Commitment to upholding YMCA policies, procedures, and core values

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
Must be able to actively participate in indoor and outdoor program activities
Requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and moving throughout the program space
Must be able to respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected situations and emergencies
Ability to maintain active supervision of children and ensure a safe environment at all times
Must possess the physical and mental stamina necessary to support a fast-paced childcare environment

The YMCA is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religious creed, protected genetic information, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran's status.