Program Specialist

Palmdale, CA

POSITION: Program Specialist (full-time) M-F 9am - 6pm (may vary based on needs)

RATE: $20-$24 (based on qualifications/experience)

REPORTS TO: Program Director & Executive Director

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

Assist the Program Directors with planning, preparation and implementation of Club programs, grants and other associated duties. Supports the hiring process by conducting orientation, training and exemplifying the performance standards of a Club Employee, while learning the daily functions and requirements of a Program Director. Works in partnership with the Program Director to ensure that program goals and implementation expectations are met equally among all club locations. This position also includes the responsibilities of a Site Coordinator during the afternoon hours.  

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities):

  • Provide support in all areas to the Program Director’s in an effort to maintain the quality of Club programs at all assigned locations.
  • Become familiar with all Boys and Girls Club processes surrounding program preparation and implementation.
  • Administer the employee orientation and assist with the training of incoming staff at various sites in the Antelope Valley.
  • Perform Site Coordinator / Program Support responsibilities at an assigned location, or to fill-in when necessary.
  • Maintain positive representation at all times acting as a role model for Club staff and members. Maintain professionalism and current knowledge of all Club policies and procedures as outlined in BGCofAV Parent Handbook, Employee Handbook, Club website and all additional Club documents.
  • Work closely with the Administrative and Program staff to ensure success of the Quality Standards that are in line with the After-School Education and Safety Program (ASES) as well as other associated Club grants.
  • Become familiar with all Club site locations and any differences that may apply to separate sites in order to properly provide information to members, parents, staff and the community.
  • Assist with filtering follow-up phone calls and emails regarding Club questions or concerns as needed.
  • Attend planning/training sessions and meetings with the Program Staff and Administrative Team for the purpose of evaluating progress toward goal completion as well as to establish goals and plans for future programming.
  • Support and observe the work of program staff in achieving program goals. Provide adequate praise, guidance and redirection as suggested by the Program Director / Executive Director. Report all staff related incidents/concerns immediately.
  • Be aware of/assist with site record keeping. (Members case management files, accurate weekly paperwork, signature forms, memos, etc.)
  • Become familiar with the Club’s online platforms; Website, Database, Email Platform, Registration Portal, Parent Portal, etc., to communicate information effectively and maintain professional standards of use.
  • Communicate daily with the Program Director, site and school staff with intentions of expanding your knowledge of Club programs, policies and goals as well as current status of Club Sites.
  • Submit nightly/weekly notes (when requested), of goals met or any associated progress made.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned by the Program Director or Executive Director.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS:

1. Leadership

  • Develop commitment from staff, parents, members and district staff to ensure active participation in Programs and Activities.
  • Empower staff to be leaders through positive role modeling, consistent training and communication.
  • Facilitate and supervise grant required activities and National Program activities in the following areas: Character & Leadership, Education & Career Development, Health & Life Skills, The Arts, and Sports, Fitness, & Recreation.
  • Provide recognition to staff through positive validations, healthy incentives, and affirmation on a regular basis.
  • Team building mentality is exemplified in all work done.
  • Positively influence and uplift staff, club members and other affiliates.
  • Ensure productive and effective performance by all program staff and volunteers.

 2. Manage & Develop Resources

  • Monthly program planning is required to ensure preparation and successful programs and activities.
  • Attend and participate in Staff Trainings, which is essential to professional development.
  • Follow all policies and procedures at all times, including the Club’s Code of Conduct, which can be found in the Employee Handbook.
  • Maintain case management files and other grant related paperwork and submit in a timely manner.
  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of the Club site, and all office areas.
  • Utilize collaboration efforts to develop new opportunities for the Club.

 3. Communication

  • Must be able to inform important and relevant information in Staff Meetings and to parents, co-workers, Program Director and other Boys & Girls Club affiliates.
  • Must be able to listen to co-workers, parents, youth members and community and other Boys & Girls Club affiliates while maintaining a professional relationship and positive representation of the Club at all times.
  • Must be able to present important and relevant information and/or presentations through program facilitation, staff meetings or trainings, and/or other Boys & Girls Club events.
  • Must be able to write and compose clear, concise, accurate written documentation and data reports.

 4. Supervision, & Safety

  • Must be able to supervise up to 20 youth and keep members engaged and safe during program time
  • Ensure the safety standards are met by all site staff, at all times.
  • Ensure that staff provide sound and reasonable discipline to youth members at necessary times through written documentation (i.e. citation), and/or parent phone call.
  • Practice and constantly be aware of safe practices like Crisis Management, Emergency Preparedness, CPR and First Aid, etc.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work space at all times.

 5. Other Duties as Necessary

 QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Expectations

  • Must be at least 18 years of age and have valid identification
  • At least 3 years work experience with a Boys & Girls Club or other youth serving organization.
  • Must have reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and the ability to get to and from work at the scheduled times.
  • The Club has a mandatory overtime policy when required. This could extend your workday and/or may require working on Saturdays as needed. You must be available for this type of work schedule.
  • CPR Certification (Adult, Child, Infant preferred), or attend and successfully complete certification within first month of employment.
  • Ability to organize, supervise, and reinforce positive behavior from members
  • Must pass a background check, TB and drug test.
  • Must obtain Serve Safe Certification as applicable to the site(s).

 2. Education/Skills

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Associates degree from accredited college or university or BA/BS preferred (higher starting pay rate will be considered).
  • Instructional Aid Qualified (Paraprofessional Test Required)
  • Enthusiasm and patience for working with children and passion about education.
  • Exemplary communication and leadership skills
  • Excellent student interaction skills in 1:1 and small group settings.
  • Meet Staff Training requirements

 3. Physical Requirements/Work Environment

  • Maintain a high energy level and positive representation.
  • Be comfortable performing multi-faceted projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities.
  • Must be able to work in loud environments and communicate clearly.
  • Stand for four plus hours per day.
  • Stoop, bend, climb, and walk frequently.
  • Lift up to 40 pounds.