Youth Development Specialist - Summer Camp/Seasonal

Gene Slay's Girls & Boys Club is seeking Seasonal Youth Development Specialists to join our team for our 2026 Summer Camp. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. Interviews will begin in April. Mandatory training begins June 1st and Summer Camps runs June 8th - July 31st. Candidates must be available for the entirety of Summer Camp.

Mission: The mission of Gene Slay’s Girls & Boys Club (GSGBC) is to empower girls and boys in the St. Louis metropolitan area, especially those who need us most, to realize their physical, intellectual, and emotional potential.

Vision: We aspire to help youth build strong, supportive relationships that allow them to safely explore and discover new skills, ideas and opportunities to reach their fullest potential.

Values: Deep Appreciation, Tailored Support, Social and Emotional Growth, Strong Relationships, Collaborations, Critical Thinking and Family Partnerships.

Organization Description:Since 2018, GSGBC has embraced trauma-informed care in its operations and service delivery to members and their families. Drawing from models like the Sanctuary Model, Missouri Model, and Conscious Discipline, the organization integrates trauma-informed principles into its culture and practices. Staff receive training to understand the impacts of trauma and effectively address related behaviors. The Conscious Discipline Model emphasizes safety, connection, and problem-solving, enhancing support for children’s emotional and behavioral needs. GSGBC is committed to fostering a supportive, empowering environment where members and families can thrive.

GSGBC offers afterschool and summer programming for youth ages 5-16, serving more than 700 youth annually. GSGBC supports youth development and holistic health with programs that include: Academics, Athletics, Character Building, Healthy Living, College & Career Readiness and The Arts. The Afterschool Program runs August through May, 2:30pm-7:30pm, a Summer Camp is offered June through July, 8:00 am-5:00 pm.

Location & Schedule:

GSGBC’s 2026 Summer Camp will be located at our Soulard Campus (2524 S. 11th St., 63104). The Summer Camp YDS position is a part-time, seasonal position during Summer Camp which is offered June 8th through July 31st. Summer Camp operates 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday - Friday, individual schedules will vary. Summer staff will report for mandatory training June 1st – June 5th.

Primary Function:

The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) is passionate about working with youth and is responsible for the delivery and implementation of program activities in accordance with the established program plan. The YDS fosters an environment of positive outcomes for youth and promotes the development of academic, physical, intellectual and emotional potential of our members.

Key Roles (Essential Responsibilities):

• Implement the components of trauma-informed care
• Supervision and behavior management of members
• Implement and oversee evidence-based programs
• Be a positive role model for youth
• Build and sustain relationships with youth and parents
• Demonstrate ability to implement programming, negotiate and problem-solve, including using de-escalation practices
• Implement curriculla that assist children and youth to succeed in our core program areas of Academics, Athletics, Character Building, Healthy Lifestyles, Arts, and College & Career Readiness.
• Maintain accurate records
• Actively participate in all training sessions, team and staff meeting
• Work collaboratively with peers
• Ensure that youth development principles are incorporated into all program activities
• Complete other duties as assigned for the overall operations of the club
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrate ability to establish and maintain relationships with Program Manager(s), Area Club Manager, Director of Programs, and additional Program staff

Skills & Knowledge Required:

• Possess knowledge of human development and trends in youth development
• 2 – 3 years previous experience working with children and youth in a group setting
• High School diploma or equivalency, required; Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Human Services, Psychology, preferred
• Ability to organize and supervise members in a supportive and safe environment
• Ability to implement GSGBC rules and policies in a fair and equitable manner
• Ability to motivate youth and manage behavior problems in a trauma informed manner
• Must be a team player, self-starter, possess a high degree of independence and must be self-motivated
• Ability to problem solve and process through critical thinking
• Must pass the health and employment requirements set by Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Physical Requirements/Work Environment:

· Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while supervising children and monitoring program spaces.

· Ability to bend, reach, and perform light cleaning and organizing tasks.

· Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally (e.g., moving supplies or equipment).

· Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations, including participating in safety drills and guiding children to safety.

· Ability to administer basic First Aid, which may involve kneeling or bending.

· Must meet health requirements set by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, including passing a physical exam and TB risk assessment.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accomodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Pay: $16.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee assistance program

Work Location: In person