Boys & Girls Clubs of San Leandro·Hayward, California
Create a safe and inclusive after-school environment by leading engaging activities and providing mentorship to elementary students. Manage daily operations including transitions, meals, and lessons to support academic and social-emotional development.
This role follows the school-year calendar and does not include hours during academic breaks. Summer Camp work may be available based on program needs and availability.
As a Youth Development Professional, you’ll create a safe, fun, and inclusive after-school environment where middle school youth can learn, grow, and build confidence. Through engaging activities and mentorship, you’ll support their academic success and social-emotional development.
This role directly contributes to Boys & Girls Clubs of San Leandro by fostering positive youth development and ensuring a high-quality after-school experience. What makes this role unique is the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, work with a diverse team, and make a lasting impact in a dynamic, supportive setting.
We approach every situation with a growth mindset, demonstrating flexibility and courage, reframing challenges as opportunities. We acknowledge our current state, embrace change, and adapt as needed, maintaining a solutions-oriented approach throughout our growth journey.
What that looks like in this role: Embracing the unpredictability of each day with commitment and energy, staying motivated despite challenges. Building supportive structures for youth by setting clear expectations and using proactive strategies to navigate challenging behaviors. Adaptability is essential, whether in building relationships, collaborating with others, or adjusting approaches to ensure positive outcomes. Viewing obstacles as opportunities to improve programs, strengthen skills, and enhance youth experiences.
Youth
Centered
Approach: Every organizational action or maneuver is designed to directly impact and benefit the youth we serve. We value and prioritize the youth perspective, making decisions with a focus on their needs and well-being, rather than adult convenience.
What that looks like in this role: Prioritizing the safety, well-being, and development of every club member. Building strong relationships by understanding each child’s interests and incorporating their voices into programming to maximize engagement. Facilitating age-appropriate activities that promote educational growth while offering mentorship, patience, and guidance each day. Advocating for and empowering young people, ensuring their needs and well-being remain at the heart of every decision.
Qualifications & Experience: Required: No prior experience working with youth required—this is an entry-level role. Must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for this position. Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. High emotional intelligence and integrity. Ability to connect authentically with a diverse group of youth. Ability to independently supervise a group of youth. Patience and the ability to work under pressure in emotionally charged situations. Educational Requirements (Must have one of the following): High school diploma + 48 college semester units (˜ 2 years college), OR High school diploma + an Associate’s (or higher) degree, OR High school diploma + a passing score on the district’s Paraeducator/Paraprofessional Exam.
Multi-conversational language skills are a huge plus (Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Tagalog). Experience, education, or coursework in Childhood Development, Education, or related fields. Prior experience working in youth programs, education, or nonprofit settings.
Work
Environment: Youth Development Professional – Elementary will work primarily in a school-based site at the Boys & Girls Club of San Leandro. This role may occasionally require flexibility to accommodate organizational events or deadlines.
Key aspects of the work environment include: Frequently required to stand Frequently required to walk Occasionally required to sit Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity Frequently required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl Continually required to talk to, hear and see the youth Rarely work in high, precarious places (playground equipment height) Occasionally exposure to outside weather conditions Occasionally exposure to bloodborne and airborne pathogens or infectious materials (Communicable diseases in an office environment including COVID-19, common cold, and flu viruses. Negative TB screen required). While performing the duties of this job, the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50-70 pounds (with support, a child that has fallen)
Specialized equipment: Walkie Talkie radios for communication The Boys and Girls Clubs of San Leandro is committed to diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, disability, sex, age, ethnic or national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or presentation, pregnancy, genetics, veteran status or any other status protected by state or federal law. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds and experiences to apply. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
The above description is intended to describe the general content and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time, nor does it change your status as an at-will employee. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Market context
In California, after-school youth development roles are commonly sought by schools and community programs that need reliable supervision and student support. Competition can be strong because employers look for candidates who are at least 18, meet the education or Paraeducator requirement, and show strong emotional intelligence and comfort managing groups. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your transcript, degree, or exam status before applying.
Youth Development Professional - Middle School
Youth Development Professional (High School) – Future Ready Academic Coach
Fall Youth Development Professional (After School) - Madison Elementary