Job Description

Our Mission

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is a charitable, community-based organization committed to providing programs designed to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

Full-Time Compensation & Benefits Highlights

The following comprehensive benefits package is offered to full-time employees and is designed to support your health, financial security, and career growth:

• Free health insurance
• Employer-paid group term life insurance (1x annual salary)
• Employer-paid long-term disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Child & Family Services
• A variety of voluntary benefit options

Employees are immediately eligible to enroll and contribute to the Y Retirement Fund 403(b) plan, with a generous 12% employer-paid contribution after eligibility requirements are met.

Our comprehensive paid time off program includes personal time off, holidays, and sick leave.

Staff receive a complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara membership and program discounts.

Additional benefits include ongoing training, an extensive leadership development program, and opportunities for career advancement.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Program Coordinator plans and implements the daily operations of assigned preschool, school-age child care (SACC), and camp programs. This role provides leadership to program staff, ensures high-quality programming, and upholds a safe, positive experience for children and their families.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:

Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week. A typical daily schedule is 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Plan and implement weekly lesson plans and organize program activities and special events in accordance with YMCA standards.
2. Provide leadership, coaching, and supervision to program staff. Enforce all policies and procedures.
3. Serve as the site coordinator and camp director for assigned locations. Cover staff absences as needed.
4. Prepare and maintain staff schedules for assigned sites. Manage time-off requests and approve time sheets in compliance with YMCA policy.
5. Ensure compliance with all regulations and standards set by the NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health, YMCA Buffalo Niagara, school districts, and other applicable agencies.
6. Maintain clean, organized program areas. Enforce hygiene protocols and ensure PPE compliance.
7. Ensure a safe environment by enforcing safety rules and responding to injuries and incidents.
8. Conduct site audits, report deficiencies, and implement improvements to enhance safety and program quality.
9. Maintain program supplies and equipment.
10. Respond to parent and participant concerns promptly and professionally. Implement solutions to resolve issues.
11. Perform administrative tasks in compliance with YMCA and regulatory agency requirements.
12. Build and maintain positive relationships with children, parents, staff, and school personnel.
13. Maintain ongoing communication with families, school administrators, and OCFS representatives.
14. Maintain required certifications and actively participate in staff meetings and training sessions.
15. Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Must be at least 21 years old.
2. Meets one of the following education and experience combinations:

a. Bachelor’s Degree in a Child Care/development related field, plus 1 year of full-time teaching experience, and 1 year of supervisory experience in a childcare setting.

b. NYS Children’s Program Administrator Credential, plus 1 year of full-time teaching experience, and 1 year of supervisory experience in a childcare setting.

c. Associate’s degree in early childhood education with a plan of study leading to a Bachelor’s degree or Administrator Credential, plus 2 years full-time teaching experience and 2 years supervisory experience in a childcare setting.

1. Successfully completes the OCFS comprehensive background clearance requirements before beginning work at the program site.
2. Able to lead activities for preschool and elementary school age children including group work, values education, and age-appropriate activities.
3. Demonstrates an understanding of the YMCA’s mission, goals, and programs.
4. Experience in program administration.
5. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with participants, parents, school administration, and staff.
6. Current CPR/AED (adult, child, infant) and First Aid certifications from the American Red Cross, American Health Association, or American Safety & Health Institute. Responding to Emergencies certification preferred.
7. Medication Administration Training (MAT) certification may be required.
8. Proficient in Microsoft Office software.

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an Equal Opportunity Employer.