About the Role
The Assistant Director supports the daily operations of the SONYC after-school program, ensuring a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for middle school students. This position requires a strong interest in youth development and expertise in one or more content areas that enhance the overall program experience. The Assistant Director collaborates closely with the Program Director, Group Leaders, and Activity Specialists to plan and implement dynamic lessons and activities that promote learning, leadership, and positive youth engagement.
The ideal candidate will have knowledge of after-school program operations and the mandates of the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOH).
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
Program Planning & Implementation
Develop lesson plans and activity guides that align with program goals and age-appropriate learning outcomes.
Collaborate with Group Leaders and Activity Specialists to strengthen curriculum delivery and reinforce learning.
Model effective facilitation techniques and classroom management strategies for staff.
Assist with program supervision during all activities, including snack/supper, transitions, and dismissal.
Staff Support & Development
Mentor Group Leaders to support their professional growth and prepare them for leadership or specialist roles.
Promote teamwork, collaboration, and effective communication among staff.
Attend staff meetings, training workshops, and special events as required, including those held outside regular program hours.
Youth Engagement & Safety
Ensure the safety, participation, and positive engagement of all youth during program activities.
Provide strong classroom and behavioral management to maintain a respectful and productive environment.
Supervise youth during field trips, special events, and off-site activities.
Administrative Responsibilities
Complete required administrative tasks, including attendance, timesheets, and incident reports.
Support compliance with DYCD and DOH standards and documentation requirements.
Contribute to ongoing program improvement and evaluation efforts.
Professional Development
Complete 30 hours of professional development annually.
Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, initiative, and a willingness to learn and grow in the field of youth development.
Serve as a positive role model for both staff and participants.
Qualifications
Appropriate training or certification in a specialty area; college degree preferred, but college students are welcome.
Minimum of two years of experience working with middle school-aged youth.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Exceptional group management, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution abilities.
Demonstrated competency in youth development and child care practices.
Ability to design engaging academic or enrichment activities appropriate for middle school students.
Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work collaboratively within a school or community setting.
Familiarity with DYCD and DOH program mandates.
Core Competencies
Leadership & Mentorship
Youth Development & Engagement
Program Planning & Implementation
Cultural Competency & Inclusion
Communication & Teamwork
Professionalism & Reliability
Physical Requirements
Ability to supervise and engage in active indoor and outdoor activities with youth.
Occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.
About the Company
The Harriman Program is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, promotion, termination, compensation, benefits, and training. The Harriman Program makes employment decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. For more information, please visit harrimanprograms.org.