Lead Counselor Active Kids

JLead Counselor (Group Leader)

Active Kids After School Program

Position Type: Part-Time, Seasonal (2-5 days per week)
Program: Active Kids After School Program
Location: The Adirondack Club, Franklin, MA

Pay Rate: $16-$20/hr

Job Overview

Join us in creating memorable experiences for children through active play, engaging enrichment opportunities, and positive role modeling.

As a Lead Counselor (Group Leader) in the Active Kids After School Program, you will oversee a designated group of children while providing a safe, structured, and engaging environment. Lead Counselors are responsible for implementing daily activities, supporting positive youth development, supervising Assistant Counselors, and ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all participants.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in youth development, recreation, education, childcare, or camp leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the supervision of children during all program activities, including recreation, fitness activities, enrichment programming, and homework support.
• Plan and implement age-appropriate activities that promote positive youth development, social-emotional growth, teamwork, and engagement.
• Maintain a safe, clean, inclusive, and welcoming environment at all times.
• Supervise and support Assistant Counselors, providing guidance and direction throughout program operations.
• Monitor attendance, transitions, and accountability of assigned children throughout the program day.
• Oversee daily transitions including bus arrivals, snack distribution, activity rotations, and parent/guardian dismissals.
• Promote positive behavior management strategies and serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, staff, and families regarding participant needs, concerns, and achievements.
• Follow all Active Kids, Adirondack Club, and Massachusetts EEC policies and procedures.
• Immediately report any incidents, injuries, safety concerns, or suspected abuse/neglect in accordance with program policies and EEC regulations.

Minimum Hiring Requirements

To qualify for the Lead Counselor (Group Leader) position, candidates must meet the following requirements prior to employment:

• Suitable BRC (Background Record Check), completed upon hire.
• At least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of Staff Orientation.
• Meet Massachusetts EEC Group Leader qualifications, including: 
  • 9 months of supervised work experience with school-age children or one practicum; or
  • 6 months of supervised work experience with school-age children with a high school diploma or equivalent; or
  • 3 months of supervised work experience with school-age children with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Leadership experience working with children in settings such as after-school programs, summer camps, recreation programs, athletics, or youth organizations.
• Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate programming.
• Experience planning and facilitating activities for elementary-aged children.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to effectively supervise groups of children while maintaining a positive and engaging atmosphere.
• Ability to mentor and collaborate with Assistant Counselors and fellow team members.
• CPR/First Aid certification is preferred.
• Experience in structured childcare, youth development, recreation, or educational settings.

Work Environment

• Active, hands-on role requiring participation in games, physical activities, and recreational programming.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, running, and engaging with children throughout the program day.
• Indoor and outdoor activities may be required depending on program needs and weather conditions.

Schedule & Compensation

• Typical schedule: 2-5 days per week.
• Regular program hours are typically 2:45 PM to 6:00 PM.
• On half-days, school vacations, and no-school days, programming may operate between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, with morning and afternoon shift options available.
• Breaks provided in accordance with company policy and applicable regulations.
• Compensation based on experience, qualifications, and applicable certifications.

Benefits

• Full Individual Adirondack Club Membership with access to club facilities, fitness center, pool, and group fitness classes when working a minimum of 5 hours per week.
• Opportunity to build leadership skills and gain valuable experience in youth development, recreation, education, and childcare.
• Professional growth opportunities, including advancement into supervisory and seasonal camp leadership roles.
• Positive team environment where your work has a direct and meaningful impact on children's lives.