Group Leader

Overview

Summary/Objective: The SoZo Teen Center Group Leader is responsible for implementing engaging and developmentally appropriate programming for teens, fostering a safe and inclusive environment, and building positive relationships with youth, families, and community members. The Group Leader will collaborate with the After School Programs Administrator and After School Programs Site Supervisor to coordinate meal services, oversee incident reporting, ensure compliance with all policies and training requirements, and contribute to the overall success of the Center's mission.

This role requires creativity, dependability, organizational skills, and enthusiasm for youth development.

The Group Leader will perform a variety of duties to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all participants.

• Conduct daily facility walkthroughs to ensure cleanliness, safety, and readiness for programming.
• Oversee meal/snack preparation and serve youth at designated times.
• Work closely with the Site Supervisor and other Group Leaders to plan and document weekly meals and activities.
• Coordinate the setup and execution of planned activities and programming tailored to the needs and interests of the teens s includes The Arts, Health & Well Being, Sports & Recreation, Leadership & Service, STEM, and Education & Career Development. Activities should align with the program’s goals, encourage participation and skill building, and be adaptable to meet the needs of different grade levels and youth.
• Ensure academic support is prioritized during programming, providing access to technology as needed.
• Maintain accurate logs of daily attendance, incident reports, and require data collection.
• Conduct end-of-day cleaning to maintain facility standards.
• Complete all training requirements and regularly review progress to meet compliance with deadlines.
• Actively contribute to a structured and productive environment by addressing any behavior concerns promptly and professionally. Group Leaders are encouraged to support their peers by sharing insights and strategies with constructive feedback.

• Welcome new members, review membership forms, and ensure youth understand the Code of Conduct and Corrective Action Policy.
• Establish positive relationships with youth, modeling respect, safety, and dignity so all youth feel valued and welcomed.
• Collaborate with youth to encourage participation in meal preparation, programming, and skill building activities that promote personal growth, teamwork, and creativity.
• Address behavior concerns with professionalism and a focus on de-escalation techniques.
• Build positive relationships with guardians, school staff, and external partners to support CHJC and SoZo program objectives.
• Represent the SoZo Teen Center at assigned community events and foster awareness of its mission and programs.
• Document all incidents with appropriate forms and communication with guardians and management as necessary. All significant incidents must be reported to OMH or OASAS, ensuring compliance with mandated reporting requirements.

This role involves direct interaction with teens, participation in active programming, and administrative tasks. The Group Leader must be comfortable working in a dynamic environment and maintaining a balance between structured activities and flexibility. Office and classroom environment with occasional travel to events, conferences and/or meetings. Works in an office setting with a controlled temperature environment. Occasional exposure to inclement weather conditions may occur depending upon assignments.

This position requires a working knowledge of related office equipment including personal computers and printers, audio-visual equipment, telephone systems, copiers, and fax machines.

Must be able to sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, push/pull, climb, bend, and stoop. Must be able to perform fine motor skills, read, and type. Must be able to sit for long periods and be on your feet for long periods. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Encouraged to participate in various physical/recreational activities with the youth.

This is a part-time, hourly position based on program needs. Flexibility in hours is required. The successful candidate must be available to work onsite Monday through Friday from 2:15 PM to 7:45 PM EST during the school year, in alignment with the Watertown School District calendar. Hours may vary during school breaks or special events. Remote work may be authorized during school breaks or cancellations and outside of regular program hours.

Some local travel required.

• Skills/Abilities/Knowledge: Group Leaders must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, demonstrating the ability to relate to teens from diverse backgrounds. Creativity and adaptability are…