Program Specialist

Program Specialist

Pay Rate: $18/hour
Reports to: Program Director
Location: Jackson

The Program Specialist inspires and empowers youth ages 6-13 through innovative, hands-on learning experiences that foster creativity, confidence and future readiness. Individuals in this role will develop and deliver high-quality, engaging programming with our members to help young people explore pathways in planning, delivering, and supervising high-quality youth programs that support creativity, belonging, and skill-building. This position plays a vital role in bringing the unique vision of delivering the six types of capital (CHEWS) with programming rooted in art, design, technology, entrepreneurship, digital media, STEM, and real-world experiences.

Program Specialists help create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment where youth can explore their interests, develop new skills, and thrive in a membership-based model.

Schedule Requirements

Typical schedule: Monday- Friday

Ability to work on occasional evenings, weekends, special events and field trips.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare Youth for Success

• Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment that supports strong Youth Development Outcomes.
• Build positive, professional relationships with members and serve as a consistent role model.
• Encourage participation by promoting programs, engaging members throughout the day, and supporting new member orientations.
• Help members explore creative, entrepreneurial, and career-based pathways through hands-on activities and industry exposure.
• Foster positive youth development through relationship building, mentoring, skill development and youth voice opportunity.
• Promote social-emotional learning, leadership development, and belonging.

Program Development & Implementation

• Plan, implement, and evaluate high-quality programs that support youth learning and development.
• Lead engaging activities in digital media, arts, music, mobility innovation, creative technology, entrepreneurship, and industry-led workshops.
• Create opportunities for participants to develop new skills, explore career pathways, and build confidence through hands-on learning experiences.
• Ensure all programs are delivered in a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment that promotes creativity and personal growth.
• Facilitate daily programming with energy, clarity, and effective classroom management.
• Adapt activities for different ages, abilities, and learning styles while maintaining engagement.
• Support collaboration with volunteers, corporate partners, guest speakers, and creatives, participating in programming.
• Maintain all program spaces—including creative labs, studios, and equipment—to ensure functionality and safety.
• Ensure programs comply with safety guidelines, childcare licensing standards, and BGCGD policies.
• Support Club events such as showcases, special events, performances, pop-ups, exhibitions, and partner activations.

Program Monitoring, Evaluation & Data

• Track attendance daily using MyClubHub (MCH) or designated BGCGD platforms.
• Monitor program quality and report activity outcomes, challenges, and successes to the Program Director.
• Assist with evaluating program effectiveness through surveys, observations, and KPIs.
• Ensure that program spaces are visually appealing, youth-friendly, and aligned with BGCGD standards.

Member Supervision & Safety

• Supervise youth in program spaces, hallways, common areas, and during transitions.
• Maintain a safe environment by proactively addressing behavior concerns, conflicts, or incidents.
• Report all safety issues or incidents using proper systems and protocols (MCH, incident reports, etc.).
• Help enforce Club rules, expectations, and culture consistently and respectfully.
• Maintain appropriate youth to staff ratios in accordance with licensing and organizational requirements.
• Abide by all mandated reporting gridlines.

Team Collaboration

• Participate actively in staff meetings, training, and professional development sessions.
• Work collaboratively with other Program Specialists, Industry Club staff, volunteers, and partners to support smooth daily operations.
• Communicate effectively with the Program Director regarding scheduling needs, supply requests, and program updates.

Additional Responsibilities

• May assist with or lead special events, workshops, field trips, and community partner programming.
• Support marketing and storytelling by capturing photos/video (within BGCGD guidelines).

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year experience working with youth (preferred in creative, education, enrichment or tech environments). Experience may include volunteer service, internships, practicum experience or paid employment.
• Knowledge or interest in one or more creative hub content areas: digital media, art, design, music, science/tech, entrepreneurship, mobility/STEM, or related fields.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to engage youth in high-energy, diverse programming.
• Comfortable using technology and learning new platforms (MyClubHub, Canvas, etc.).
• Must pass BGCGD background check and meet safety requirements.
• Ability to work scheduled shifts, including evenings and occasional weekends.
• CPR/ First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Education:

Highschool Diploma or GED

Preferred
Associat’s Degree or course work in Education, Youth Development, Social Work, Arts, Media, Technology, Entrepreneurship, STEM or a related field.

Nice to Haves:

• Knowledge of Michigan childcare licensing regulations
• Understanding of youth to staff ratio requirements
• Youth Development

Core Competencies

• Youth Engagement & Relationship Building
• Creativity & Innovation in Program Delivery
• Classroom & Group Management
• Adaptability & Problem Solving
• Team Collaboration & Communication
• Cultural Responsiveness & Inclusivity
• Safety & Risk Awareness
• Basic Technology Skills
• Customer Service
• Problem Solving
• Collaboration

Pay: $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 20.0 per week

Work Location: In person