Description

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a Counselor (Site Lead) at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, you will play a leadership role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality and enriching child care programs for children ages 5-12. Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, you will oversee the daily operations and implementation of the child care program, provide support to staff members, and collaborate with families and community partners to promote positive outcomes for children and families. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and contribute to the overall success of our program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Program Leadership: Perform the director’s responsibilities in the director’s absence.
• Provide leadership and direction in the implementation, and evaluation of developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities.
• Staff Supervision: Assist the Youth Development Director by supporting a team of staff, including program leads and assistants. Provide guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to enhance staff performance and job satisfaction.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, association standards, and YMCA policies and procedures related to programming, health and safety, staff qualifications, and facility maintenance.
• Family Engagement: Build positive and collaborative relationships with children's families/guardians, serving as a point of contact for communication, feedback, and support. Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that values and respects diverse family backgrounds and perspectives.
• Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local schools, agencies, and organizations to enhance program offerings, access resources, and support children's transitions to and from the program. Represent the YMCA in community events and initiatives related to family services.
• Training and Development: Participate in and facilitate staff training sessions, workshops, and professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills. 
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records, documentation, and reporting related to program operations, enrollment, attendance, staff schedules, and other administrative tasks. Prepare reports and summaries as required by regulatory agencies, funders, and stakeholders.

Requirements

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

• Functional Expertise
• Program and Project Management
• Developing Self & Others

QUALIFICATIONS:

The Counselor (Site Lead) will meet the qualifications set forth by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care Health and Safety. Minimum qualifications include:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have a high school diploma or the equivalent
• Meet the minimum qualifications for “Director-designee” as defined by the VA Department of Education Division of Child Care Health and Safety
• Staff shall be in good character and reputation
• CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire
• Medication Authorization Training (MAT) within 60 days of hire
• Completes all pre-employment requirements including background checks
• Adequate speaking, hearing and writing skills appropriate for interacting with children required
• Ability to be on time, every time for scheduled shifts required
• Ability to work at various program locations preferred
• Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds
• While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions
• Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking 
• Will be exposed to cleaning supplies
• Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time
• Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications
• During peak program seasons, may be expected to work night and weekend hours to meet program needs

BACKGROUND CHECKS:

An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks, E-Verify, drug test, driver’s license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS). Additional driver’s license check, CPS, criminal background check, alcohol, and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and/or maintain the

requirements of this position.