Group Leader – Metro Kids Club (MKC) www.metrokidsclub.com
Location: Highland, IL
Job Type: Part‑Time or Full‑Time (School‑Age Program)
Starting Pay: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications
About Metro Kids Club
Metro Kids Club provides safe, structured, and engaging school‑age programs that support families and strengthen our community. Our Group Leaders bring the MKC experience to life through energetic programming, positive interactions, and reliable supervision.
If you enjoy working with children, leading activities, and being part of a supportive team, this role is a great fit.
Position Summary
The Group Leader creates a safe, engaging, and fun environment for school‑age children by leading activities, supervising groups, and supporting daily program operations. This role ensures high‑quality interactions, positive behavior management, and consistent adherence to MKC policies, DCFS licensing standards, and safety expectations.
Group Leaders are the heart of MKC — delivering meaningful experiences and building strong relationships with children and families.
Responsibilities
Program Delivery & Child Supervision
- Lead daily activities including games, crafts, STEM projects, and enrichment experiences
- Maintain active supervision and required staff‑to‑child ratios
- Support positive behavior management using MKC‑approved strategies
- Ensure safe transitions during activities, snack, restroom breaks, and dismissal
- Build positive, supportive relationships with children
Compliance & Documentation
- Follow DCFS licensing rules, MKC policies, and CACFP food service guidelines
- Assist with attendance tracking, incident reports, and safety documentation
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold child protection standards
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with the Assistant Director and Site Director
- Communicate child needs, concerns, or incidents promptly and professionally
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development
- Support Program Aides and assist with group management
Transportation & Driving Eligibility
- Maintain a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
- Participate in transportation safety training
- Assist with child transportation needs as assigned
- Demonstrate safe, reliable driving practices
- Continued employment requires maintaining driver eligibility
Cleaning, Maintenance & Safety
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe program environment
- Participate in daily cleaning routines
- Ensure equipment and supplies are used safely and stored properly
- Report safety or maintenance concerns immediately
Brand Protection & Operating Hours
- Support consistent opening and closing routines
- Maintain reliability and punctuality
- Deliver high‑quality interactions that reflect MKC’s brand and values
Qualifications
- Must meet Illinois DCFS requirements for School Age Worker
- Must have college credits in Education or early childhood
- Experience working with children in childcare, recreation, education, camps, or youth programs
- Strong communication, teamwork, and problem‑solving skills
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
- Ability to lead activities and manage groups
- Willingness to obtain food safety training
- Must pass background checks and meet all DCFS health and safety requirements
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours per shift)
- Lift and move items up to 40 pounds
- Bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as needed
- Move quickly and safely during emergencies or behavioral escalations
- Perform cleaning tasks including wiping, sweeping, mopping, and organizing materials
Why Join MKC?
- Supportive leadership and structured expectations
- Opportunities for growth within the program
- A mission‑driven environment focused on safety, reliability, and community impact
Apply through Indeed, or send resume directly to [email protected]
Pay: $16.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
