West Side Community Services (WSCS)
Do you have a passion for creating fun, engaging, and meaningful experiences for youth? Do you want to take the lead in designing activities that help children grow, learn, and thrive? West Side Community Services is seeking Youth Activity Specialists to guide our youth and shape our afterschool programming.
As an Activity Specialist, you’ll be responsible for leading enrichment activities in areas like recreation, arts, tutoring, sports, and STEM. You’ll manage your own group of students, ensuring safety while delivering high-quality, developmentally appropriate programming. This is a hands-on leadership role where you bring your creativity, skills, and energy to every session.
At WSCS, we value inclusivity, empathy, and representation. We strongly encourage candidates who reflect the diversity of our community to apply.
Responsibilities
- Plan, lead, and facilitate engaging activities for youth in grades K–6.
- Take ownership of your activity area (sports, arts, STEM, tutoring, etc.) and ensure consistency and quality in delivery.
- Manage a group of children, ensuring safety, structure, and positive behavior.
- Adapt activities to meet diverse learning styles and developmental needs.
- Build strong, positive relationships with youth, families, and school staff.
- Contribute ideas and feedback to strengthen overall program design.
- Maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment for all children.
- Other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Demonstrated experience leading groups of children in recreation, arts, academics, sports, or enrichment activities.
- Strong youth management and group facilitation skills.
- Creativity and initiative in program design and delivery.
- Ability to motivate youth and manage behavior according to agency policies.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to bring energy, positivity, and innovation to daily programming.
Qualifications
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Education/Experience (any of the following):
- Associate’s degree in Child Development, Education, or related field; OR
- School-Age Child Care Credential + 1 year of experience with children under 13; OR
- High school diploma/GED + 2 years of direct experience with children under 13.
- CPR & First Aid Certifications (preferred).
- Bi-/Multilingual skills (preferred).
- Valid State Driver’s License (preferred).
- Must pass OCFS background check and fingerprinting.
- Availability: Monday–Friday, 2:00–6:00 PM.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $17.00 per hour
Work Location: In person