About Job

Position Summary

Reports to: Youth Development Leadership

The Lead Afterschool Counselor is responsible for providing leadership, guidance, and support to the YMCA’s afterschool program staff while ensuring a safe, engaging, and structured environment for children. This role includes overseeing daily program operations, mentoring and training new counselors, communicating with parents, and assisting with conflict resolution among staff and participants. The Lead Counselor plays a key role in fostering a positive and inclusive environment that aligns with the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Culture Statement

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core values. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose of serving as a catalyst to transform lives and communities through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are respectful – we treat each other and those we serve as we hope to be treated ourselves. We are caring – we show a sincere concern for others and their well-being. We are honest – we are truthful in what we say and what we do, and we do not make promises we do not intend to keep. We are responsible – we are good stewards of our resources, strive for excellence and our actions are accountable to those we serve. We are innovative – we harness creativity, are solution minded and forward thinking. We lead with faith.

Essential Functions

Lead and support a team of afterschool counselors, ensuring consistency in programming and supervision.

Train, mentor, and provide ongoing support to new and existing counselors to enhance program quality.

Oversee daily program operations, ensuring activities run smoothly and meet YMCA standards.

Communicate regularly with parents and guardians, addressing concerns, providing updates, and ensuring a strong partnership between families and the program.

Resolve conflicts among children and staff, using positive behavior management techniques and problem-solving strategies.

Ensure all YMCA policies and safety procedures are followed, including supervision ratios, check-in/check-out processes, and emergency protocols.

Assist in planning and leading structured activities, including arts, sports, and enrichment programs.

Monitor staff performance, providing feedback and recommendations for improvement.

Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment, ensuring all participants feel supported and engaged.

Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities to continuously improve leadership and program effectiveness.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.

Prior experience working with children or in a leadership role preferred (training provided for the right candidate).

Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to train, mentor, and guide other staff members.

Ability to manage and resolve conflicts professionally, both among children and staff.

CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire, training provided).

Ability to communicate effectively with parents and guardians, maintaining positive relationships.

Organized and proactive, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Ability to create a structured, nurturing, and fun environment while ensuring safety and discipline.

Physical ability to participate in activities, including bending, lifting (up to 40 lbs.), and engaging in outdoor play.

Commitment to the YMCA’s mission, values, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous expereince working with children.

Working Conditions

Walking

Sitting

Stooping

Standing

Vision

Kneeling

Writing

Climbing

Hearing

Running

Lifting/Pushing/Pulling(50lbs)

Competencies

EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations

COMMUNICATION & INFLUENCE: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause

PROGRAM/PROJECT MANAGEMENT: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs

DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential

To learn more about our Y-USA Leadership Competencies, please click here: