Graduation Specialist

JOB TITLE: Graduation Specialist
DEPARTMENT: Graduation & Workforce Readiness
REPORTS TO: Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

FUNCTION:

The Graduation Specialist is responsible for fostering positive relationships with at-risk teen club members, guiding and supporting them to stay on a productive path toward high school graduation. This position works closely with the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness to create an enriching educational environment, offering guidance and structured programs to help members succeed academically. The Graduation Specialist plans, promotes, instructs, and evaluates academic and graduation readiness programs, services, and activities for teens.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACTIVITIES:

Teen Program:

• Foster an environment that supports the achievement of youth development outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with grant requirements (under the direction of the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness).
• Promote and stimulate active participation and consistent attendance among teen members.
• Build rapport with teens through mentoring and guidance, establishing trust and support.
• Oversee leadership development, artistic skills, engagement, and academic progress.
• Collaborate with the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness to design and implement innovative, academic-focused activities and group projects.
• Effectively administer and evaluate programs to ensure safety and engagement.
• Support teens’ emotional and social development, encouraging self-awareness and empathy.
• Plan and facilitate purposeful, engaging activities and group projects.
• Submit regular lesson plans to the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness.
• Submit accurate attendance sheets to the Teen Manager for record-keeping.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities.
• Contribute to a productive work environment by attending staff meetings and maintaining regular contact with colleagues and members.
• Research topics based on the needs and interests of teen members.
• Set up and clean up program spaces, encouraging teens to help with the process.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Type: Hourly, Part-Time
• Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience working with teens.
• Experience: Minimum of two years of relevant experience working with youth or in related fields.
• Certifications: CPR and First Aid certifications preferred. Additional certifications in relevant skill-based activities highly preferred.
• License: Valid state driver’s license and ability to drive a club vehicle when necessary.
• Background: Must pass pre-employment background check and drug test.
• Skills and Abilities:
  • Experience in youth development and understanding of adolescent behavior.
  • Ability to create and facilitate interactive and educational activities.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to motivate youth, manage behavior issues, and maintain a safe environment.
  • Ability to design and implement effective youth programs.
  • Flexibility to handle a variety of tasks and projects simultaneously.

General BGCMC Expectations:

• Healthy Behavior Modeling: All staff members are expected to model active, healthy lifestyles, demonstrating the importance of wellness.
• Inclusive Environment: BGCMC is committed to fostering a welcoming environment for youth of all backgrounds. Staff are expected to support and promote diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion (DEAI) among all members and colleagues.
• Continuous Learning: BGCMC encourages all staff to participate in professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge in youth development.
• Safe Spaces: Staff members share the responsibility of ensuring BGCMC remains a safe environment, free from sexual, physical, or emotional abuse.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.
• Proficient in using computers and office equipment for data input, processing, and storage.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds during a standard 4-8 hour shift.
• Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.
• Must maintain high alertness for safety-sensitive tasks.
• Noise levels may be high due to the Club's indoor and outdoor activities.