Youth Development Counselor

The Kids Zone Staff provides direct supervision and quality care for children in YMCA programs, including Kids Zone, Parent’s Night Out, and School Age Programs. This position supports all YMCA of Central New Mexico branches as needed. Kids Zone Staff ensure a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment that reflects the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Staff support the development of children through creative, age-appropriate, and inclusive activities while building positive relationships with families and colleagues.

This position also serves as a substitute for before and after school program staff when regular staff are absent, maintaining consistency and quality care across all YMCA childcare and youth programs.

This position description is not intended to be all-inclusive. It is understood that the employee will also perform other reasonable business duties if requested. Position descriptions are reviewed periodically and may be revised if deemed necessary. This job description is not a written or implied contract.

• Provides direct supervision of children in assigned program areas, maintaining a safe and supportive environment.
• Works across all YMCA of Central New Mexico branches as assigned, including Kids Zone, Parent’s Night Out, and substitute coverage for before and after school programs.
• Plans and implements engaging, developmentally appropriate, and inclusive activities that align with YMCA values.
• Greets and maintains positive communication with parents, children, and staff.
• Ensures YMCA program standards and state ratios are met; follows all safety and emergency procedures, including those related to child abuse prevention, medical, and disciplinary situations.
• Helps maintain a clean and organized program area; performs general housekeeping duties following provided checklists.
• Assists with the setup and preparation of materials for daily and special activities.
• Participates in YMCA special events such as Family Nights, Parent Night Out, and fundraising activities.
• Encourages family engagement and volunteer participation in program activities.
• Attends staff meetings and completes required trainings.
• Adheres to YMCA policies including those on dress code, punctuality, use of electronics, and professional conduct.
• Acts as a positive role model, promoting social-emotional learning and reinforcing YMCA core values in all interactions.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; one year or more of college preferred.
• Previous experience working with children in childcare, recreation, or educational settings preferred.
• Ability to plan and lead age-appropriate activities for diverse groups of children.
• CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Abuse Prevention certifications required within 30 days of hire.
• Experience working with diverse populations and an inclusive mindset preferred.
• Must have reliable transportation to travel between YMCA of Central New Mexico branches as scheduled.
• Speaks Spanish (preferred, not required)

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off