YMCA of Honolulu·Honolulu, Hawaii
The Teen Engagement Specialist designs and leads student-centered sports activities to promote teamwork, healthy lifestyles, and youth voice. They also serve as a mentor, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment while collaborating with school staff and community partners.
$19.00 - $23.00 Hourly
Engagement Specialists are responsible for designing and leading student-centered clubs and activities for youth in grades 6 through 12. In collaboration with YMCA leadership and program participants, the instructor creates engaging after-school sports experiences that reflect teen interests and promote youth voice and inclusion. Engagement Specialists are also encouraged to connect with community members and organizations that support student interests. This role plays a key part in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment that supports the goals of the program and encourages student growth. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/JOB DUTIES: Plan and lead daily intramural sports and recreation activities that encourage participation, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles. Introduce youth to a variety of sports (e.g., basketball, soccer, volleyball, flag football) with an emphasis on skill development, positive sportsmanship and safety. Organize and supervise friendly competitions, tournaments, and seasonal leagues within the after-school program, and other community partners. Promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership in all activities. Create inclusive programming that engages students with varying abilities and experience levels. Ensure a safe and supportive environment by supervising youth closely and enforcing behavior expectations. Serve as a mentor and role model, offering encouragement, feedback, and guidance on and off the field/court. Maintain accurate attendance records, equipment inventories, and incident reports. Collaborate with YMCA leadership, school staff, and community partners to expand sports opportunities. Assist with administrative tasks including scheduling games, managing supplies, and placing orders. Participate in staff meetings, planning sessions, and required training. Demonstrate and uphold the YMCA’s mission, values, and standards at all times. Communicate effectively, consistently, and professionally with participants, parents, co-workers, and others associated with the program such as HIDOE and DHS contacts. Perform other duties as assigned to support program success.
Skills/Knowledge: At least 6 months experience engaging middle/high school youth in recreation, leadership development, service learning, civic engagement, college and career pathways, and/or other personal development areas. Skilled in general youth programs group or classroom management. Ability to take initiative in implementing engaging academic activities and promote healthy studying habits. Must be able to acquire the knowledge necessary for the age-appropriate curriculum specific to assigned subject in accordance to HIDOE standards. Customer service oriented with strong interpersonal skills, well organized and multi-tasked oriented. Understanding of working with teens, group management, and group work. Mature judgment and sound decision-making. Possess a collaborative and flexible mindset that elevates youth voice and provide opportunities in areas where the candidate may not have expertise. Lead by example, serve as a model of professionalism and competency for peers and employees. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds. Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Office, Windows 10 and above, Canva, preferred. Education/Training: High school diploma or equivalent required. General office operations experience preferred. CPR, AED, and First Aid certified (training available upon hire). WHY THE Y?: Free Y membership with employment Referral bonuses - Y employees can earn cash or Y credit bonuses for referring a new hire Up to 60% discounts for yourself, family, and even your siblings on Y programs, camps, preschool, childcare, and more. Child Protection Commitment The YMCA requires all staff to share responsibility for preventing child abuse by upholding professional boundaries, completing mandatory Praesidium training, and reporting concerns. All candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background screening, including criminal and sex offender checks.
*See job opportunities page for full details **All 21CCLC positions are dependent on the availability of funds and continuation of the 21CCLC contract. The current contract provides programming for the following three school years (2025-2026, 2026-2027, and 2027-2028) with the possibility of extension for an additional two years (2028-2029 and 2029-2030).
Candidates must have at least 6 months of experience working with youth in recreation or leadership development. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, and candidates must be able to obtain CPR, AED, and First Aid certification.
Market context
Teen Engagement Specialist roles in Hawaii often draw steady interest because schools and community programs need staff who can support youth development, recreation, and safe activity spaces. This role is competitive for candidates with youth leadership or recreation experience, a high school diploma, and readiness to earn CPR, AED, and First Aid certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your experience with youth sports and your certification timeline before applying.
