Activity Specialist, UIM

Position Title

Activity Specialist

Middle School (2026-2027 School Year)

Department

Community Schools

Site/Location

UIM

Job Classification

Non-Exempt

Part-Time, Seasonal

Salary Range

$22 per hr

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.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Summary/ Objective

East Side House (ESH) is a community resource in the Bronx and Northern Manhattan. We believe education is the key that enables all people to create economic and civic opportunities for themselves, their families, and their community. ESH’s SONYC after-school program aligns with our mission by providing high quality programs and services within community centers and school partnerships.

Reporting to the Program Director, the Activity Specialist is responsible for delivering high-quality enrichment programming that promotes youth development, engagement, and skill-building. The Activity Specialist will plan, facilitate, and assess a specialized activity based on their area of expertise, such as visual arts, dance, music, sports, STEM, coding, culinary arts, fitness, or other enrichment subjects. As a member of the Afterschool Programs team, the Activity Specialist is expected to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment; maintain positive relationships with participants and staff; and support program goals and outcomes. This position has no direct reports and interacts with program staff, school personnel, students, families, and community partners. With a focus on youth enrichment and positive youth development, the Activity Specialist provides hands-on learning experiences that foster creativity, confidence, teamwork, and skill development.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Activity Specialist will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:

• Plan and facilitate engaging, structured enrichment activities in their designated area of expertise.
• Develop age-appropriate lesson plans and curricula that align with program goals and participant needs.
• Lead specialized workshops and projects that promote skill-building, creativity, and self-expression.
• Create and maintain a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment for all participants.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and submit required documentation in a timely manner.
• Ensure proper use, organization, and care of activity materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Collaborate with program staff to support overall program operations and special events.
• Serve as a positive role model and reinforce program expectations, policies, and procedures.
• Adapt activities to meet the varied interests, abilities, and developmental needs of participants.
• Communicate effectively with site staff regarding participant progress, concerns, and successes.
• Participate in required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Assist with participant supervision during transitions, snack time, and other program activities as needed.
• Arrive prepared and on time for scheduled sessions, typically one to two days per week.
• Travel to assigned program sites as required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the success of the afterschool program

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.

Qualifications

Qualifications

To perform this position successfully, the Activity Specialist must be able to fulfill all the elements of the job description to the highest standard and be able to work well with colleagues in a high energy and collaborative work environment. Additional qualifications include:

Education / Experience

• High School Diploma or Equivalent

Competencies

• Appropriate training, certification, or demonstrated experience in the assigned area of specialty; an associate degree preferred.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, initiative, and creativity in developing enrichment opportunities.
• Minimum of two years of experience working with elementary- or middle school-aged children in school or out-of-school settings preferred, particularly in diverse urban communities.
• Strong group management, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Goal-oriented, with a focus on achieving program objectives and positive student outcomes.
• Excellent time-management and organizational skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of youth development principles and age-appropriate practices for working with children and adolescents.
• Ability to engage and motivate students through interactive, age-appropriate academic and enrichment activities.
• Willingness to develop professional skills through training opportunities, coaching, and field practice, and the ability to work collaboratively within a school community.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively and respectfully with diverse students, families, colleagues, and school personnel.
• Familiarity with applicable DYCD SONYC program requirements and NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) regulations.
• Knowledge of student supervision, group management, and classroom management strategies.

Clearance

• Department of Health Fingerprint Clearance
• Department of Education Fingerprint Clearance
• Department of Investigation Fingerprint Clearance
• State Central Registry (SCR) Clearance
• Staff Exclusion List (SEL) Clearance
• Health Statement

Supervisory Responsibility

N/A

This role has no supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Demands

This role may involve occasional lifting or moving of items up to 25 pounds and routine use of standard office equipment. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Expected Work Schedule

The work schedule expected for this position is: Monday-Friday 2pm-6pm , as aligned to the needs of the program/ service. The schedule may be adjusted based on ESH’s operational needs, with notice provided whenever possible.

EEO Statement

East Side House (ESH) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourages individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.