EAST SIDE HOUSE SETTLEMENT·New York
The Activity Specialist designs and leads enrichment activities for elementary students while ensuring their safety and engagement. They also assist with program operations, including supervision, administrative tasks, and professional development.
Activity Specialist School Year 2026-2027 Department COMPASS Program – Elementary (CMP06) Site/Location PS 154 333 E 135th Street, Bronx, NY 10454 Job Classification (HR Use Only) Non-Exempt Part Time Salary $ 22.00 per hour Reports To Program Director MISSION STATEMENT East Side House cares for the individuals, families, and communities we serve by expanding opportunities to live more fulfilling lives through education, career, and supportive services.
Summary/ Objective East Side House, founded in 1891, is a 501(c) (3) organization that has served the South Bronx since 1963. The organization is dedicated to the community and focused on providing resources and opportunities. East Side House has identified that education is the foundation for economic improvement. Its youth education and technology programs teach skills to allow its students and clients to become more self-sufficient and independent. As a community resource, the organization also provides services to families and a growing senior population. In 2020 the organization began food distribution as an additional way to provide economic support to the community we serve. ESH summer programs offer students additional learning time in a fun, engaging, and safe environment. Students are offered a wide variety of activities, including homework help, robotics, team sports, karate, dance, and music. Educational methods are used to build and reinforce the skills needed to reach New York State standards for promotion and graduation The Activity Specialist’s primary responsibility is to design and lead enrichment activities for students. We are seeking creative professionals with experience working with the youth in the following (but not limited to) areas: Music, visual arts, martial arts, media technology, dance, sports, and recreation (soccer, tennis, basketball, volleyball or lacrosse), health awareness and community leadership. Under the guidance and supervision of the Program Director, the Activity Specialist is expected to communicate regularly, assist with program improvements, and provide consistent support to ensure program goals and youth development outcomes are met. Essential Functions and Responsibilities Duties and Responsibilities of the Program Assistant include, but are not limited to, the following: Ensure the safety and engagement of students in assigned activities. Develop and facilitate weekly activity lesson plans. Facilitate purposeful activities that foster the development of new skills in students, while reinforcing skills/information previously taught. Assist in all activities needed for the orderly operation of the program, inclusive of: supervising students during snack/supper, facilitating dismissal, conducting field trips, hosting special events, etc. Work with Group Leaders, engaging them in the lesson plan development process and modeling activity facilitation to help Group Leaders develop professionally and eventually to become Activity Specialists. Provide strong classroom and behavioral management skills, ensuring that all participants follow agency and program rules Assist in organization of quarterly student presentations, performances, and events Complete all projects and tasks as requested, while ensuring the safety and security of all participants and the smooth operation of programming. Assist in all activities to ensure the orderly operation of the program, inclusive of: supervising students during snack/supper, facilitating dismissal, and completing daily administrative paperwork (e.g., keeping attendance, time sheets, etc.) Attend and supervise students during special projects and field trips, including those which occur outside of regular program hours Complete 15 hours of professional development each calendar year. Demonstrate key competencies including initiative, teamwork, cooperation, preparedness, professionalism, reliability and a willingness to improve continuously Attend all meetings, training workshops and special events, as required, inclusive of those outside of programming hours Complete all assigned projects and tasks on time Adhere to all ESH policies, practices, and procedures Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. QualificationsRequired Skills/Experience Minimum High School Diploma or GED Associate’s college degree preferred Appropriate training or certification in their area of specialty. Entrepreneur mindset Minimum of two years’ experience working with elementary or middle school-aged children (in-school/out-of-school settings), preferably in a racially, ethically, and socio-economically diverse urban community Exceptional group management, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills Goal oriented and focused on outcome and results Excellent time management and organizational skills Strong verbal and written communication skills Competency in youth development and childcare Demonstrate the ability to engage, motivate, and effectively work to create interactive academic and/or enrichment activities that are age-appropriate Genuine enthusiasm for developing professional skills through training opportunities and field practice. Ability to work as part of a team within a school community Ability to communicate and work effectively and respectfully with a broad range of diverse constituents Knowledge of DYCD and DOH mandates Knowledge of classroom management. Competencies Communication Proficiency Team Building Problem Solving/ Analysis Time Management Ethical Conduct Required Clearances Department of Health Fingerprint Clearance Department of Education Fingerprint Clearance Department of Investigation Fingerprint Clearance State Central Registry (SCR) Clearance ($25.00) Staff Exclusion List (SEL) Clearance Health Statement Required Online trainings Mandated Reporter, 2 hours, https://www.hslcnys.org/hslc/ Foundations of Health & Safety Training, 5hours, https://www.ecetp.pdp.albany.e Expected Work Schedule This is a seasonal part-time position. Must be available during summer program hours, generally 1:30pm through 5:30p.m.; 20 hours per week (not inclusive of meetings); hours subject to change based on ESH’s needs. Supervisory Responsibility This role has no supervisory responsibilities. Work Environment This job operates in a professional school environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Travel No travel. Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee must regularly talk or hear. This is generally a sedentary role; however, some filing and site visits are required. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand on a stool as necessary. Reasonable accommodations that allow a candidate to meet the requirements of the position will be considered. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer AAP/EEO Statement ESH encourages people with disabilities, minorities, veterans, and women to apply. Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against based on any legally protected category, including sexual orientation or gender identity. EEO/AA/Vet/Disability Employer.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and at least two years of experience working with school-aged children. Strong group management skills and the ability to pass multiple background clearances are required.
Market context
In New York, Activity Specialist roles are often tied to after-school and student support programs, so demand can be steady where schools and youth services need structured enrichment. These positions are competitive because employers look for proven group management, experience with school-aged children, and the ability to clear multiple background checks. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then confirm your experience with children and clearance readiness before applying.