After School Counselor - Part-Time (On Site)

Salary: Minimum $12.00/hour - Maximum $15.00/hour

Type: Part-Time – Non-Exempt

Schedule: Up to 30 hours per week

Reports to: Sr. Childcare Director

Organization Overview

At the YMCA of the Lowcountry, we are more than an organization — we are a cause. Together, we strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our staff are at the heart of this mission, creating safe, welcoming environments where children grow, families thrive, and everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Position Overview

The Afterschool Counselor provides fun, safe, and engaging after-school programs for students. During the program, counselors support children with homework assistance in math and literacy, enrichment activities including STEM, and age-appropriate guidance that promotes healthy living strategies and overall well-being.

Benefits You’ll Receive

• Complimentary YMCA Membership for Part-Time employees. An additional adult family member may be added for $20 per month.
• Participation in the National YMCA Retirement Fund, a defined contribution plan. Employees become eligible for a 12% employer contribution after completing 1,000 hours of service in each of two 12-month periods (doesn’t have to be consecutive).
• All staff are eligible to make voluntary 403(b) retirement contributions (no employer match).
• Discounts on YMCA Programs (Immediate Family)
• 50% discount for staff working 20 or more hours per pay period
• 25% discount for staff working 10–19 hours per pay period
• 15% discount for staff working fewer than 10 hours per pay period

What You’ll Do:

• Supervise and engage a group of children to ensure a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.
• Co-plan and implement program activities that are developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive, and aligned with YMCA values.
• Adheres to all program standards, including health, safety, and cleanliness requirements.
• Attend all required staff meetings and trainings, including abuse risk management and youth safety training.
• Follows all YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical needs, behavior management, child abuse prevention, and emergency response.
• Builds and maintains positive relationships with parents/guardians and staff; models strong relationship-building and communication skills in all interactions.
• Maintains appropriate professional boundaries with youth at all times.
• Follows established procedures for supervising youth and managing high-risk activities.
• Promptly reports suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and any policy violations.
• Complies with all mandated abuse reporting requirements.

What We’re Looking For:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Completion of, or enrollment in, an early childhood education program is preferred.
• Experience working with elementary-aged children in a state-accredited childcare setting.
• Ability to actively supervise children and respond to emergencies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow policies, procedures, and licensing requirements.

The YMCA of the Lowcountry is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Applicants requiring accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.