The Teen Counselor plans and organizes program activities and weekly teen clubs while ensuring the safety of all participants. They are responsible for building authentic relationships with teens and parents and maintaining compliance with grant requirements.
Requirements summary
Candidates must be at least 18 years old with a high school degree and 2-4 years of experience working with youth in group settings. Required certifications include CPR/First Aid/BLS and completion of Youth and Teen Safety Training.
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.
NATURE AND SCOPE: Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, the Teen Counselor plans, organizes all program activities at the Y Branch; ensures the safety of youth and teens who are participating in the programs and clubs; creates and leads monthly special events; and coordinates and facilitates weekly teen clubs.
This is a grant funded position.
RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to): Carry out daily program tasks related directly to the position's scope and responsibility.
Provide leadership and supervision to the participants within the program with guidance from the Youth Development Director.
Instructs lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly.
Stay updated on current issues regarding programs.
Promote, monitor, evaluate and ensure that all programs run smoothly with a high level of service to participants.
Coordinate and ensure all program components are implemented and met to meet compliance of Goizueta Grant.
Builds effective, authentic relationships with teen participants and parents/guardians; helps them connect with each other and the YMCA.
Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers.
Assist as needed in all aspects of the YMCA and its community.
Responsible for maintaining and reporting incident/accident paperwork.
Other duties as assigned.
This position must perform duties in accordance with the policies, goals, mission, values and objectives established by the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Branch Strategic Plan, Safety Protocols, and Member Services Guidelines and Program Non-Negotiables.
Emphasis will be placed on member service, program knowledge, participant/staff safety, and communication with members and staff.
Implement the YMCA safety protocols both related to Youth and Teen Safety Policy and branch operations.
Assist with implementing program checks that ensures participant/staff adherence to the Y safety protocols, with a commitment to member and staff safety.
Adhere to the YMCA Youth and Teen Safety Policy.
Requirements
Must be 18 years of age Must have a High School Degree 2-4 years prior experience working with school-age youth or teens in a group setting Have evidence of current successful completion of biennial training in CPR/First Aid/BLS, or complete within 30 days of hire Completion Youth and Teen Safety Training prior to first day of scheduled work Excellent verbal/written communication skillS Have experience with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and Power Point Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check, drug screen and motor vehicle record 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
Covington Family 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.
Teen counselor roles in Georgia often draw steady interest from candidates with youth-program or school-based experience, especially where programs need staff who can manage groups safely and consistently. These roles are competitive because employers typically look for age eligibility, a high school diploma, prior work with teens, and current safety certifications such as CPR, First Aid, or BLS. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then confirm your experience with school-age youth and complete any required checks and certifications before applying.
