The Site Counselor is responsible for leading assigned groups in planned activities to support program goals, focusing on planning and implementing activities for elementary-age children that build necessary school success skills. This role requires operating the program in compliance with Bright from the Start (BFTS) and YMCA regulations while emphasizing member service, safety, and communication.
Requirements summary
Candidates must be at least 18 years old, possess a minimum credential meeting BFTS requirements along with a High School Diploma or equivalent, and have prior experience working with school-age children in a group setting. Essential requirements also include current CPR/First Aid certification, proficiency in Microsoft Office and platforms like Google Classroom/Zoom, and passing mandatory background and fingerprint checks.
As a thought-leader and best-in-class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community-building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest and most essential non-profits serving in Atlanta.
Today, we’re looking for you to join us as we carry out our mission to positively impact lives and communities across the state.
At the Y, we’re an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the forefront of a movement to ensure that everyone -- especially children -- experience an equal opportunity to reach their full potential.
In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high-quality literacy and STEAM-infused learning; give 58,000 youth and teens access to sports, aquatics, day and resident camps, teen leadership development programs, and employment opportunities; provide over 200,000 members with programs, services, and facilities to enjoy connection and maintain wellness regardless of age; and engage over 25,000 volunteers and donors from across Atlanta to share in the gift of supporting their communities.
Under the direction of the Afterschool Program Director(s) and Site Director, the Site Counselor is responsible for leading assigned group in various planned activities to support the overall goals of the program.
Planning and implementing activities for elementary age children that builds upon the skills needed to be successful in school.
All decisions must be guided by Bright from the Start and the YMCA standards.
This position must perform duties in accordance with the policies, goals, mission, values and objectives established by the Metropolitan Atlanta YMCA, Branch Strategic Plan, Safety Protocols Including COVID, and Member Services Guidelines and Non-negotiables.
Emphasis will be placed on member service, program knowledge, member/staff safety, and communication with members and staff.
Minimum Requirements: Must be 18 years of age.
Must possess a minimum credential that meets BFTS requirement and HS Diploma or equivalent.
Have prior experience working with school-age children in a group setting.
A licensed setting and supervision of staff in a school-age setting is a plus.
Have current evidence of successful completion of biennial training in CPR/First Aid.
Excellent verbal/written communication skills.
Have experience with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and Power Point, as well as, internet technology platforms such as Google Classroom and Zoom.
Must receive a cleared GCIC/NCIC and a cleared Fingerprint check through Bright From the Start before working.
Annual GCIC checks will be conducted before each school year begin.
Ongoing Responsibilities: Operate the program according to BFTS and YMCA policies and procedures.
Create an environment that provides various activities and instruction to support program goals.
Operate and deliver the program in compliance with YMCA and BFTS regulations.
Discuss and report any concerns with the Site Director.
Maintain personal file to remain in compliance with Bright From the Start and the YMCA.
Compile attendance records and other pertinent information required by the program, as needed.
Coordinate supply orders with the Site Director.
Attend BFTS, YMCA and other trainings as scheduled.
Maintain BFTS annual trainings hours.
Consult with the Site Director on concerns related to student(s) development or behavior.
Provide input into the planning and development of the program.
Complete monthly self-assessments of the program, as needed.
Assist students with virtual learning assignments as required by their school district.
Perform other duties as related to the delivery of a quality afterschool program.
This position must perform duties in accordance with the policies, goals, mission, values and objectives established by the Metropolitan Atlanta YMCA, Branch Strategic Plan, Safety Protocols Including COVID, and Member Services Guidelines and Non-Negotiables.
Emphasis will be placed on member service, program knowledge, member/staff safety, and communication with members and staff.
Implements the YMCA safety protocol both related to COVID and branch operations.
Implement wellness checks and provide a leadership role in ensuring member/staff adherence to the safety protocols, with a commitment to positive member and staff safety.
YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES (Leader): Mission: Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility; demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs; recruits volunteers and supports fundraising activities.
Collaboration
Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions; builds rapport; seeks first to understand others’ point of view and remains calm; speaks and writes effectively; takes initiative.
Operational
Effectiveness: Strive to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members; Makes sound judgments and transfers knowledge from one situation to another; establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings; follows policies and procedures; strives for best practices.
Personal
Growth: Pursues self-development; demonstrates an openness to change; is emotionally mature.
Effect on
End
Result: Children and Families will experience a high-quality school-age program. Children will be supervised at all times. The program will remain in compliance at all times with the YMCA, and BFTS if at a licensed facility, rules and regulations. Ergonomic
Requirements
Bending, stooping, standing, sitting, lifting up to thirty pounds, seeing, hearing, keyboard input. Employment and Benefits package for this job posting is offered through the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. Employment Requirement: Ability to pass a pre-employment background check including Criminal Record check, Drug Screening, motor vehicle record (MVR) and reference check according to company policy. Must be legally eligible to work in the US without current or future sponsorship. This job posting is subject to change at any time. The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of our culture of excellence. The opportunities to serve are vast, and we’re looking for like minded people, who share our values of CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY to join us and do their best work. The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Location
McCleskey East Cobb YMCA The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta is an association of volunteers, members and staff, open to and serving all, with programs and services which build spirit, mind, and body. The Y believes in strengthening our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. When you join our team, you become part of a legacy over a century in the making, where passionate individuals work together to create meaningful change. Whether you're coaching future leaders, supporting wellness initiatives, or fostering connections, your work will have a lasting impact. Explore your potential, grow your career, and make a difference with the Y. Become a part of something bigger today! If you require an accommodation, please click HERE to send an email.
Market context
Georgia other roles need adaptable candidates
In Georgia, other roles like this often draw candidates who can combine customer-facing professionalism with practical, transferable skills. Competition can be stronger when employers want experience or education in kinesiology or exercise science, plus clear communication and strong time management. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then tailor your application to show how you meet customer needs and handle responsibilities reliably.
