Substitute Youth Development Professional

*Title: Substitute*
Youth Development Professional
Location: All Branches
Category: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Reports To:
Branch Director
Pay Rate:
$17.00/hr -$18.50/hr (depending on experience)
Weekly Schedule: Not Applicable; since position is an on-call and as-needed basis.*
*Job Summary
Substitute Youth Development Professional (YDP) directly impacts the lives of our Club members by engaging in safe, interactive programs and learning experiences by covering for regular Youth Development Professionals in their absence. The role daily provides hands-on delivery of a wide variety of developmentally appropriate youth programs and activities, such as social recreation, education development, team building activities, and an overall environment to build positive relationships.

We are looking for an adaptable and committed individual who can balance an energetic, fun, youth-focused atmosphere with professionalism and maturity. This role is perfect for those who thrive in dynamic environments, prefer a flexible schedule, and are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young individuals.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Be available on an on-call basis to fill in for regular Youth Development Professionals as needed.
• Respond promptly to requests for substitution.
• Adapt to various Club locations and schedules, ensuring continuity in program efforts.
• Plan and supervise activities in program areas, including the Games Room, Art, Gym, Education Room, Tech Lab, and Outdoors.
• Deliver age-appropriate programs and activities for children in grades K-5. Coverage for the Teen Center may occur on occasion.
• Actively supervise areas to promote a safe and positive environment.
• Maintain a positive Boys & Girls Club culture with high energy, strong teamwork, and effective collaboration with other staff.
• Maintain productive relationships with parents, staff, and other visitors to Club.
• Model positive behaviors for children and staff.
• Attend mandatory monthly all-staff trainings.
• Assume other tasks, assignments, and responsibilities as needed or directed.

Qualifications

• At least 18 years old.
• Ability to reliably commute to various Club locations across Thurston County.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing environments and schedules.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Demonstrated experience working with youth, parents/guardians and/or community partners.
• Demonstrated experience working in a team environment.
• Excellent communication, written, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to de-escalate problems when present, and problem-solve during day-to-day activities.
• Ability to control and manage a group of children through different activities.
• Mandatory CPR and First Aid certifications (course available upon hire).
• Must pass local and national background check and drug screening (in accordance with RCW

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in both Spanish and English, allowing for effective communication with Spanish-speaking clients, partners, and team members.
• Combined experience and/or formal training equivalent to a minimum six months where: (1) There is experience working with youth and knowledge of youth development, (2) Formal training and/or experience teaching youth while creating engaging learning experiences, and/or (3) Boys & Girls Club experience preferred, but not required.

Benefits

• Paid sick leave
• Paid development training
• Paid First Aid/CPR training certification
• Hourly pay premium of $0.50/hour for fluent Spanish speakers
• Free access to Employee Assistance Program

Work Environment And Physical Requirements
This position operates primarily in Club-based indoor settings and uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, and filing systems. It will require travel between Club sites and sometimes to off-site locations for trainings, meetings, or program support.

The role requires physical, mental, and emotional stamina to work in dynamic and sometimes high-energy environments. Duties may involve standing, walking, sitting, climbing stairs, and using hands for various tasks. The employee must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and move about the work environment with sufficient agility to push/pull, squat, bend, stoop, twist, and reach overhead.

Additional Requirements Include

• Manual dexterity to write, use phones and computers, and operate a vehicle.
• Visual and auditory ability to read materials, engage in conversation, and lead groups.
• Mental acuity to assess and respond to situations, collect and interpret data, solve problems, and make sound decisions.
• Ability to handle noise and activity generated by youth in enclosed environments.
• Strong interpersonal skills and flexibility to collaborate with a wide variety of individuals.

DISCLAIMER
The information presented here indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. This position description is not designed to contain, nor is it to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

About Us
Founded in 2001, Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County (BGCTC) inspires and enables youth to realize their greatness. With nine Clubs across Lacey, Olympia, Rochester, Tenino, Tumwater, and Yelm, we serve over 1,500 youth and teens each year in safe, fun, and supportive spaces during out-of-school time. BGCTC is led by CEO Shellica Trevino and supported by a strong Board of Directors and nearly 75 employees.

Visit to learn more about our organization.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County is committed to equal employment opportunity. We prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws