STEM - Activity Specialist

Who are we?

The YWCA of the City of New York (YW-NYC) is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. We are a social justice organization dedicated to addressing issues that emerge at the intersection of race, class and gender. Founded in 1858, the YW-NYC is the first YW in the United States and part of an international movement of YWs worldwide. We currently serve 1,500 New York City school children by providing leadership and advocacy training for young women through our high school Girls Initiatives and Out-of-School Time (OST) programs for elementary and middle school students in diverse communities in Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Job Summary

We are seeking a caring, creative, and results-oriented STEM Activity Specialist committed to positive youth development and passionate about inspiring curiosity and confidence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This role is ideal for an individual who can design and implement engaging, hands-on STEM curriculum in an afterschool setting that sparks innovation and critical thinking in youth.

Key attributes of a successful STEM Activity Specialist include the ability to manage complex and detailed tasks simultaneously; effectively integrate program philosophy and management policies consistent with the organization’s mission and goals; utilize analytical thinking and creativity to develop and deliver innovative STEM programming; and work both collaboratively and independently with key stakeholders and partnering organizations.

In this role, the STEM Activity Specialist will plan, facilitate, and supervise interactive, age-appropriate STEM activities such as coding, robotics, engineering challenges, environmental science experiments, and technology-based projects for participants in the YWCA after-school program. The Specialist will create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment where all students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to explore STEM concepts with confidence.

This position works closely with program leadership and school staff to align STEM lessons with program objectives, prepare youth for showcases, competitions, or community events, and differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning styles and abilities. The STEM Activity Specialist will also support youth in developing problem-solving skills, teamwork, digital literacy, and a growth mindset through project-based and inquiry-driven learning experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Program Planning & Delivery:

• Design, plan, and facilitate developmentally appropriate, hands-on STEM lessons and projects incorporating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts through project-based and inquiry-driven learning.
• Create engaging activities such as coding challenges, robotics builds, engineering design projects, environmental investigations, and technology integration experiences that connect learning to real-world applications and careers.
• Ensure STEM curriculum aligns with youth development principles, program goals, and student interests while fostering curiosity, innovation, and critical thinking.
• Differentiate instruction and adapt materials, tools, and teaching strategies to meet diverse learning needs, abilities, and learning styles.
• Maintain a daily minimum of 15 participants in the activity while ensuring high-quality engagement and participation.

Supervision & Safety:

• Supervise participants at all times, ensuring their safety and well-being in compliance with YWCA policies, particularly when utilizing equipment, tools, or technology.
• Establish and reinforce clear safety procedures for experiments, engineering builds, and technology use.
• Delegate roles to group leaders and program staff during STEM sessions to support small-group facilitation and hands-on learning (as applicable).
• Manage the learning environment effectively to promote collaboration, respect, and active engagement in STEM exploration.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work closely with the Program Director and Education Specialist to align STEM activities with program  schedules, academic standards, and overall program objectives.
• Collaborate with school-day staff to reinforce classroom learning and extend STEM concepts beyond the school day.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, school staff, and parents/guardians regarding student progress, STEM projects, and upcoming showcases or events.

Program Support & Events;

• Prepare participants to present STEM projects, demonstrations, or prototypes at culminating showcases, STEM fairs, or special events in partnership with school staff.
• Support field trips to STEM-related sites, community-building events, and enrichment opportunities that expose youth to STEM careers and pathways.
• Encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and presentation skills through collaborative STEM challenges and public      demonstrations.

Operations & Compliance:

• Set up, operate, and clean up activity spaces; maintain organization, inventory, and proper storage of STEM supplies, materials, and equipment (e.g., robotics kits, laptops, lab materials).
• Ensure responsible use and care of technology and specialized equipment.
• Submit required program documentation, lesson plans, and attendance records in a timely and accurate manner.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development to strengthen STEM instruction and stay current with emerging technologies and best practices.
• Implement YWCA’s anti-racist and anti-sexist philosophy throughout STEM programming, actively promoting equity and representation in STEM fields.
• Contribute to program evaluation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance STEM program impact and student outcomes.

· Associate’s degree or a minimum of two (2) years of college coursework required; degree in STEM-related field (e.g., science, technology, engineering, mathematics, computer science, education, or related discipline) preferred.

· 1–2 years of experience facilitating STEM, educational, youth development, or community-based programming required; experience in afterschool or project-based learning environments strongly preferred.

· Demonstrated knowledge of STEM concepts and hands-on instructional practices (e.g., coding, robotics, engineering design process, environmental science, or applied technology).

· Strong classroom management, facilitation, and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse learners through interactive and inquiry-based teaching strategies.

· Ability to integrate technology effectively and safely into learning activities.

· Creative, adaptable, and culturally responsive, with a commitment to making STEM accessible and inclusive for all youth.

· CPR/First Aid certification required (or willingness to obtain within designated timeframe).

· Must successfully pass background check and fingerprint clearance.

This position averages 8 - 20 hours per week, typically between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on scheduled days, with some variation based on school needs. The Activity Specialist must be able to stand for extended periods of time. Must be able to travel and work across all YWCA program sites as needed.
 

Why work at YWCA of the City of New York? 

There are many fantastic reasons to choose a career with YWCA-NYC. In addition to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity through our programs, YWCA-NYC offers the following Benefits and Rewards:

· Competitive market salaries 

· PTO

· Free Mental Health Services with UNUM, through our Employee Assistance Program

· Commuter Benefits 

· Professional development opportunities 

· Discounted staff perks (e.g. theater tickets and theme park tickets through Plum Benefits) 

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To Apply: Please submit a resume and a cover letter that addresses your qualifications and ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined above, as well as your salary requirements.

The YWCA of the City of New York is an equal opportunity employer and contractor. We provide equal employment and contracting opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.