Afterschool Program Lead

Why Your Role Matters

We're looking for enthusiastic, dedicated individuals to join our team at local elementary schools! If you're passionate about supporting youth and creating positive experiences, we want to hear from you.

We are currently hiring for positions at the following school locations:

• Blanco Vista – San Marcos, TX 78666

• Perez – Austin, TX 78744

• Galindo – Austin, TX 78704

• Tobias – Kyle, TX 78640

Join us in creating a fun, safe, and engaging environment where youth can learn, grow, and thrive!

As a Program Lead, you will serve as the full-time leader of an assigned site program, taking ownership of daily operations, staff leadership, program quality, and the overall participant experience. You will ensure a safe, engaging, and high-quality program while building a positive and collaborative team culture.

Because this is a full-time position, hours outside of afterschool program operations are an important part of the role. Program Leads are expected to balance their work to develop a mutually beneficial schedule with their assigned school or community that allows them to contribute as a "volunteer" during the school day, strengthen relationships, and support the broader school community. Non-program hours may also include program planning and preparation, staff training and coaching, professional development, administrative responsibilities, and support of broader YMCA operations and initiatives.

As the YMCA’s primary on-site representative, the Program Lead builds strong relationships with students, families, school personnel, and community partners while consistently modeling the YMCA’s mission, vision, values, and commitment to high-quality youth development.

How You Will Make an Impact

• Oversee all daily operations, ensuring safety, compliance, and exceptional experience for students.
• Guide, coach, and inspire your team, foster collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.
• Implement daily schedules and curriculum, including games, creative projects, learning activities, and outdoor play.
• Follow Texas Childcare licensing standards and YMCA policies to maintain a secure environment.
• Partner with school principals, teachers, and PTAs, supporting campus initiatives and special events.
• Promote social-emotional development, academic support, and positive behavior through strong relationships and intentional guidance.
• Maintain clear, consistent communication with parents, caregivers, staff, and supervisors.
• Address behavior concerns, scheduling needs, or late pickups with flexibility and composure.
• Model the Y’s mission, vision, and values every day, sharing our story and culture with students, staff, and the school community.
• Complete accurate documentation and maintain confidential records related to attendance, behavior, and health.
• Participate in internal committees and assist with program-wide events and trainings.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

What You Bring to the Y

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED equivalent required
• Must meet at least one of the following qualification pathways:
• Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor’s degree, six college credit hours in business management, and one year of experience in a licensed childcare facility or accredited school setting.
• Associate Degree: Associate of Applied Science with coursework in child development and business management, and two years of experience in a licensed childcare facility or accredited school setting.
• College Coursework: 60 college credit hours in child development and business management, and two years of experience in a licensed childcare facility or accredited school setting.
• CDA or CCP: Child Development Associate (CDA) or Child Care Professional (CCP), six college credit hours in business management, and two years of experience in a licensed childcare facility or accredited school setting.
• Child Care Administrator Certificate: Certificate and two years of experience in a licensed childcare facility or accredited school setting.
• Day Care Administrator Credential: Credential and two years of experience in a licensed childcare facility or accredited school setting.
• Proven experience supervising and developing a team
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage group behavior and resolve challenges calmly
• Professional, customer-focused approach
• Growth Mindset: Learn and improve to better serve members and the mission.
• Team Player: Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment.
• Communicates Effectively: Listen actively and communicate clearly with members and peers.
• Customer Focused: Anticipate needs and ensure quality, member-centered service.
• Fosters Belonging: Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included.
• Ensure Accountability: Hold yourself and others accountable to meet commitments.
• Manage Ambiguity: Operate effectively, even when things are uncertain or the way forward is unclear.

Physical Requirements:

This role requires the ability to actively supervise and engage with children throughout the program day. The Program Lead must be able to stand, walk, and move around the site for extended periods, participate in physical activities such as games and outdoor play, and lift or carry materials and supplies up to 25–35 pounds. The role also requires bending, kneeling, and stretching to support students, maintain safe and organized spaces, and respond quickly to the needs of the program. Clear communication with staff, students, parents, and school personnel is essential, and employees must maintain awareness of their environment to ensure safety at all times. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.