Summary of the Role  

Our Club staff members are educators, coaches, mentors, community leaders, and ambassadors. They don’t just open the doors of our Clubs – they open the door to new worlds and possibilities for kids and communities. 

When you join Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica, you are part of a talented, mission-driven team that is singularly focused on making sure every child can achieve their greatest potential. We are curious and compassionate, diverse and dedicated, inspired and inspirational. And we love what we do.  

The Youth Development Professional 2 plays a key role in the development, planning, and delivery of high-quality programs and youth development practices at the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Monica. 

This position focuses on program facilitation, mentoring, and providing guidance to members, while also handling administrative duties and case reporting. Working closely with site leadership, the Program Specialist ensures that youth development practices are effectively implemented across all programs. These programs span five core areas: Character and Leadership Development, Education and Career Development, Healthy Lifestyles, The Arts, and Sports Recreation, all designed to foster positive outcomes and essential life skills for middle school youth. 

Essential Functions of the Position 

• Academic Program Design & Implementation: Develop and implement innovative academic enrichment and literacy programs. 
• Literacy Intervention: Provide targeted literacy support to members, utilizing evidence-based strategies to improve reading comprehension, fluency, and phonemic awareness. 
• Program Facilitation & Mentoring: Lead and supervise program activities, modeling effective group management, program instruction, and youth engagement to ensure a safe and enriching environment. 
• Curriculum & Lesson Planning: Assist in the development and implementation of curriculum, lesson plans, and program calendars. Support Youth Development Professionals (YDPs) with daily program preparation, data collection, and implementation to drive engagement. 
• Curriculum & Lesson Planning: Assist in the development and implementation of curriculum, lesson plans, and program calendars, with a focus on integrating academic enrichment and literacy components. Support Youth Development Professionals (YDPs) with daily program preparation, data collection, and implementation to drive engagement. 
• Case File Management: Maintain accurate case files, including tracking progress, documenting program outcomes, and updating youth development plans for individual members. 
• Specialized Events & Programs: Plan, promote, and lead specialized academic events, such as reading challenges, tutoring sessions, and educational workshops. Recruit members for programs and track participant engagement. 
• Administrative Duties: Complete all required documentation, including program evaluations, participant records, and budget tracking for supplies. Ensure all paperwork is submitted on time. 
• Facility & Supply Management: Ensure program areas are clean and organized. Monitor supply needs and manage inventory within budget. Report maintenance needs and assist in maintaining a safe and clean facility. 
• Training & Development: Participate in ongoing training opportunities to stay current with youth development trends and best practices.  
• Supervision & Leadership: Provide leadership in staff huddles and team meetings to discuss program quality, team communication, and continuous improvement initiatives. 

Qualifications for the Ideal Candidate 

• High School diploma or GED required; minimum of two years of college experience preferred. 
• At least two years of experience working with youth, with a focus on elementary and/or middle school-aged children (ages 6-13). 
• Experience in developing and implementing academic enrichment and literacy programs for youth 
• Experience in K-12 education or child development, including knowledge of phonetic reading strategies. 
• Prior experience in mentoring and managing case files preferred. 
• Good character, integrity and adaptability. Must lead with good judgement, be able to set healthy boundaries, illustrate patience, and emotional intelligence. 
• Experience working with diverse populations and communities and know how to build an inclusive environment for kids and teens. 
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a motor vehicle check. 
• Background check and TB test clearance required. 
• Must obtain/maintain a current CPR & First Aid Certification upon employment 
• Previous experience working in a Boys & Girls Club or similar youth-serving organization is a plus. 

Extra Awesome Points:   

• You are a Spanish speaker.  
• You have experience as a case manager. 
• You have a teaching certificate or background in education, with specific training in literacy instruction.