Youth Development Program Specialist

Position Details

Job Title: Program Specialist (Youth Development) Status: Full Time Non-Exempt Department: Youth Development Reports to: Director of Youth Development

Position Summary

The Program Specialist (Youth Development) plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children build confidence, develop new skills, and form meaningful connections. It also supports a strong team culture by modeling positive practices and contributing to the development of staff. Guided by the YMCA’s core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—we foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.

Key responsibilities

• Foster a warm and supportive environment where children feel a sense of belonging and develop confidence through achievement. This role supports the supervision of early learning and school-age programs, including summer camp and before and after-school care. Ensure a physically and emotionally safe learning space for all children. Develop and implement curriculum that encourages positive youth development. Provide active supervision of children and staff in a variety of settings, including classrooms and recreational program areas, maintaining proper ratios and engagement throughout the day. Build strong, positive relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open and professional communication. Prepare and organize materials for daily activities. Ensure program space and equipment are clean, organized, and safe; promptly report any safety concerns. Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and family engagement events. Model professional behavior while following YMCA policies related to confidentiality, conduct, and behavioral expectations. Adhere to all local, state, and YMCA policies and procedures, including ADA accommodations where appropriate.
• Model
• YMCA core values and use the
• Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing. Support and guide other staff in demonstrating these behaviors consistently across the program. Perform additional duties as assigned to support the program and broader YMCA mission.

Ymca competency areas

• Critical
• Thinking &
• Decision
• Making: Uses sound judgment to design and deliver programs that align with child development best practices, program goals, and safety standards.
• Communication &
• Influence: Communicates effectively with children, staff, and families. Inspires trust and helps maintain a positive, collaborative program culture.
• Functional
• Expertise (Youth
• Development): Demonstrates expertise in curriculum development and implementation. Supports quality assurance and program consistency across multiple age groups or sites.
• Program/Project
• Management: Plans, coordinates, and delivers youth programs in alignment with YMCA goals and expectations. Monitors outcomes and makes adjustments as needed
• Developing
• Self &
• Others: Mentors peers, contributes to training, and fosters a learning culture. Actively seeks feedback and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

Two years of previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred. Previous experience supervising or leading staff in a developmental setting preferred. Associate degree; Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience. Must be at least 21 years of age. Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities. Previous experience with diverse populations. Strong communication and organizational skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Understands that the YMCA is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS (or willingness to obtain upon hire)

Bloodborne Pathogens Training (or equivalent approved by the YMCA) Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification Emergency Procedures Training CPR and First Aid Certification All state-specific licensing and training requirements for the state of employment (Iowa, Nebraska, or South Dakota)

Work environment and physical demands

Ability to lift up to 25 pounds safely and repeatedly using proper technique. Physically able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, sit on the floor, and move quickly to respond to children's needs. Participate in active play, including indoor and outdoor activities in a variety of weather conditions. Maintain continuous visual and auditory supervision of children in busy, dynamic environments. Adapt to a fast-paced, team-centered work environment with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities. Must demonstrate emotional resilience, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Impact statement

This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA’s mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.