MENTOR STUDENTS. SPARK CURIOSITY. BE THE DIFFERENCE.
NOW HIRING: AFTERSCHOOL GROUP LEADERS
YMCA Y Scholars Program
Do you light up when a student finally gets it, opens up, or tries something new for the first time?
The YMCA Y Scholars Program is hiring Group Leaders ready to be a steady, encouraging presence for students during the hours that shape their day. You'll lead your own group, bring activities to life, and help kids build confidence, curiosity, and a real sense of belonging. This is more than a part-time job—it's a front-row seat to young people growing, and a meaningful first step into youth development and leadership.
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: June 2027 (spring break and summer break opportunities possible)
- Compensation: $24.00/hour
- Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
- Typical Schedule: 5 days/week, Monday–Friday
- Typical Shift: 1:00 PM–6:30 PM (Wednesdays start at 12:45 PM)
- Hours: 26–28 hours/week
- Locations: You will be assigned to one elementary or middle school site in Richmond, San Pablo, Pinole, El Sobrante, or Oakland
- See all program sites: http://map.ymcayscholars.org
Position Benefits
- Free YMCA gym membership
- Ongoing leadership development and professional training
- Priority consideration for spring break, summer break, and following-year positions
- Real opportunities to advance your career within the YMCA
What You'll Do
As a Group Leader, you're the constant your students can count on—the person who makes the afterschool hours safe, fun, and full of possibility. Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading and supervising your own group of approximately 15–20 students
- Guiding students through academic support, enrichment activities, and physical play
- Designing engaging lessons that spark creativity, teamwork, and exploration
- Fostering an inclusive space where every student feels respected and supported
- Tracking attendance and keeping students actively engaged throughout the day
- Teaming up with site staff to keep routines strong and program quality high
- Showing up as a trusted role model and mentor on campus
What We're Looking For
Required 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:
- Genuinely enjoy working with children and adolescents
- Communicate clearly and thrive as part of a team
- Show up dependable, organized, and on time
- Bring energy, creativity, and patience to every day
- Feel at home being expressive, playful, and encouraging
- Welcome feedback and stay hungry to learn and grow
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 tangible difference in students' lives, every afternoon
- Gain hands-on experience in youth development and leadership
- Grow through dedicated training, coaching, and professional development
- Join a supportive, mission-driven team that celebrates your contributions
- Be part of a program where your ideas, creativity, and presence truly matter
Ready to Make an Impact?
Your encouragement could build a student's confidence. Your consistency could create a sense of safety. Your leadership could change the direction of a young person's life.
If you're ready to grow alongside students and be part of something meaningful, we invite you to apply.
Join the YMCA Y Scholars Program as a Group Leader and help us shape brighter futures together.
Pay: $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
