Kids Zone Counselor

The YMCA of South Florida's Pembroke Pines YMCA Family Center is looking for Kids Zone Counselors who enjoy working with children to join our team. The Kids Zone Counselor is responsible for the supervision, and safety of the children in their group. Individuals in this position are responsible for assisting with planning, and implementing programs in accordance with policies, procedures, and philosophy, and core values of the YMCA of South Florida.

Essential Functions

• Take and maintain daily attendance records for children.
• Plan activities for and supervise a group of children.
• Communicate with parents/guardians in a courteous and professional manner.
• Assist supervisor with family center events
• Demonstrate, model, and gear program to the needs of individual children with concerns for their interests, disabilities, special talents, and developmentally appropriate activities.
• Communicates to parents clearly and in a timely manner any injuries, behavior problems, and/or health concerns (e.g. runny nose, fever, etc.)
• Report to supervisor and complete necessary accident/incident forms related to injuries or behavior difficulties and health concerns. “Mandated Reporter”
• Ensure all kids zone guidelines are met (Age restrictions and Log In & Log out procedures).
• Assist in the annual campaign, which includes achieving individual and team goals.
• Implement various curricula.
• Uphold all YMCA policies and procedures including those related to safety and risk management; attend all mandatory YMCA and State (if needed) trainings.
• Participate in aquatic activities with children.
• Other duties as assigned by Sr. Program Director, Executive Director, or other Y senior staff.

Position Profile

• Has a passion and enjoys working with children.
• Ability to stay calm during stressful situations.
• Strong communication skills.
• High level of patience.
• Has the creativity and flexibility to make every day a positive experience for participants.
• Enjoys working outdoors with children.

Job Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Minimum of High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Bilingual (English and Spanish, or English and Creole), a plus.
• Minimum of one year Camp or Childcare experience preferred.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Prior experience working with children ages 6 months through 12.
• Must enjoy interacting and communicating with children and parents.
• Must possess creative ability and nature when implementing a program.
• Ability to keep children engaged and under control.

Certifications and Licenses

• First Aid/CPR certification within 90 days of employment

As a condition of employment, you will be required to submit to and satisfactorily clear a thorough Level II fingerprinting background screening and drug test.

As a Drug-Free Workplace, all new hires must successfully complete a urinalysis within 72 hours of notice. Failure to complete the drug test within this timeframe will automatically disqualify you from employment. Please note Medical Marijuana cards do not exempt you from successfully passing your drug test.

The YMCA of South Florida is committed to the policy of Equal Opportunity prohibiting discrimination in the workplace because of race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age or disability.