JJK Afterschool Program - YDP

Youth Development Professional

The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation is seeking a Youth Development Professional to support youth programming in an afterschool setting. This role is well suited for college students, education majors, and individuals pursuing careers in teaching, social work, counseling, coaching, or youth development looking to gain hands-on experience working with children in a structured, mission-driven environment.

You will work closely with program leadership to ensure a safe, structured, and engaging environment while delivering programming that supports academic success, social-emotional development, and healthy lifestyles.

Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Schedule: M, T, TH, F 1:30 - 6:00pm; Wed 12:30 - 6:00pm

Compensation: $16.00–$17.00/hour, based on experience

Supervisor: Program Manager

Program Focus Areas

• Academic Support & Enrichment
• Sports, Fitness & Recreation
• STEAM
• Arts
• Jackie Joyner-Kersee Winning in Life programming

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support age-appropriate afterschool activities and enrichment programs
• Supervise youth to ensure safety, engagement, and positive behavior
• Assist with planning and implementing educational, recreational, and enrichment activities
• Support arrival, check-in, attendance tracking, and dismissal procedures
• Assist volunteer instructors and program partners with activity delivery
• Support snack and meal distribution in accordance with program guidelines
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized program spaces
• Model positive behavior, sportsmanship, perseverance, and leadership
• Incorporate Winning in Life principles into daily interactions and programming
• Communicate professionally with staff, youth, and families
• Follow all organizational policies related to safety, supervision, and mandated reporting
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (required)
• Minimum two years of experience working with children (paid or volunteer)
• Mandated Reporter Certification (required or willingness to obtain)
• CPR/First Aid Certification (required or willingness to obtain)
• Ability to meet Illinois background check and compliance requirement

Preferred Qualifications

• College enrollment or coursework in Education, Child Development, Social Work, Psychology, Kinesiology, or a related field
• Experience in afterschool programs, camps, coaching, tutoring, or youth mentoring

Skills & Attributes

• Interest in youth development, education, or community-based work
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage groups of youth with consistency and care
• Reliable, punctual, and professional
• Ability to make sound decisions and respond appropriately in dynamic situations
• Commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards
• Flexible and willing to support a variety of activities
• Interest in working with youth from diverse backgrounds

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Active role requiring standing, walking, running, bending, and reaching
• Ability to actively participate in youth activities and games
• Moderate noise levels typical of afterschool programs
• Ability to respond quickly and calmly in emergency situations
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

Why This Role Is Ideal for Aspiring Educators

• Hands-on classroom and youth supervision experience
• Exposure to behavior management and group facilitation
• Professional development aligned with education and youth careers
• Consistent afterschool schedule that fits class commitments
• Opportunity to build a strong resume and references

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply online or submit a resume to the HR Director trea@jjkfoundation.org

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.00 - $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Application Question(s):

• Please describe your experience working directly with children (ages, setting, length of time, and your responsibilities).
• Are you available to work Wednesday 12:30 - 6:00pm and Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri 1:30 - 6:00pm? If no, please provide your availability during these days/times.

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• working with children in a structured setting: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person