START HERE. LEARN FAST. GROW INTO A LEADER.
NOW HIRING: GROUP ASSISTANTS
YMCA Y Scholars Program
Want a paid role where every shift teaches you something—and where doing great work can launch you into your next position?
The YMCA Y Scholars Program is hiring Group Assistants to help create safe, welcoming, and engaging afterschool experiences for elementary and middle school students. You'll work shoulder to shoulder with experienced Group Leaders, support the activities that make each afternoon run, and build genuine connections with students along the way.
This is a paid internship with a purpose: high-performing Group Assistants are prepared for promotion into a Group Leader position within the YMCA Y Scholars Program. Bring your effort and openness to learn—we'll bring the coaching and the pathway.
About the YMCA Y Scholars Program
At the YMCA Y Scholars Program, we envision a world where every student discovers their purpose and achieves their full potential.
Each day, we elevate youth voice by offering enrichment opportunities that foster leadership learning and healthy habits.
Does your mission align with ours?
Position Overview
- Start Date: Immediate
- End Date: 8 weeks after your start date
- Compensation: $21.00/hour
- Status: Temporary, Part-Time, Non-Exempt
- Typical Schedule: At least 4 days/week, Monday–Friday
- Typical Shift: 1:30 PM–5:30 PM
- Hours: 16–20 hours/week
- Locations: You will be assigned to a region covering a rotation of 2 elementary or middle school sites in Richmond, San Pablo, Pinole, El Sobrante, or Oakland
- See all program sites: http://map.ymcayscholars.org
Position Benefits
- Paid internship with structured coaching
- A real pathway to promotion into a Group Leader position
- Free YMCA gym membership
- Ongoing leadership development and professional training
- Priority consideration for spring break, summer camp, and future school-year positions
- Continued opportunities for career advancement within the YMCA
What You'll Do
As a Group Assistant, you're the extra set of hands and the encouraging voice that keeps each program day moving—and every task builds your readiness to lead a group of your own. Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting student safety, supervision, and engagement throughout the program
- Assisting with academic activities like homework help, reading, and group projects
- Helping bring enrichment to life through sports, games, arts, and hands-on learning
- Supporting attendance tracking and basic program documentation
- Reinforcing positive behavior, steady routines, and respectful interactions
- Pitching in at school events, family nights, and student celebrations as needed
- Keeping program spaces clean, organized, and welcoming
What We're Looking ForRequired Qualifications
- 18 years of age or older
- 48 completed college units or a passing score on the Instructional Aide Exam (we'll support you if you need to take the exam)
- Ability to clear DOJ/FBI background checks
- CPR, First Aid, and AED certification within 30 days of hire (provided at no cost to you)
The Right Fit Will Also:
- Enjoy spending time with children and adolescents
- Bring patience, warmth, and enthusiasm to the work
- Communicate clearly and contribute as a team player
- Follow through—reliably and without reminders
- Roll with changing needs and keep a positive attitude
- Welcome feedback as part of personal growth
- Believe in teamwork, accountability, and getting a little better every day
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions of position and to supervise program activities
- Must occasionally lift up to 30 lbs
- Frequent bending & standing
- Able to walk for long periods of time
- Visual ability to clearly monitor activities in both indoor and outdoor settings
- Mobility to quickly respond to emergencies
Why Join Us?
- Make a meaningful difference in students' daily lives
- Gain hands-on experience in youth development and education
- Learn through ongoing training, mentorship, and professional development
- Join a mission-driven team that puts youth and community first
- Build skills that carry into future education, nonprofit, and leadership roles
Ready to Make an Impact?
Your encouragement could help a student feel seen. Your support could make learning feel possible. Your consistency could transform a child's afterschool experience.
If you're ready to grow your skills while helping students thrive, we encourage you to apply.
Join the YMCA Y Scholars Program as a Group Assistant and take your first step toward leading.
Pay: $21.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
