Youth Development Leader (Extra/Temporary/Part-Time) - SC/ San Diego Kroc Center-13-004

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Position Summary

Under supervision of the Youth Development Director, Manager, & Coordinators, Youth Development Leaders (PT) will work with youth of various ages from 6 months to 14 years. YDL's must have ability and desire to work with children, parents, volunteers, and peers. YDL's supervise and lead activities for Day Camps, Playcare, After-school Enrichment, and other Youth based programs. YDL's ensure safety and well-being of children while they are in their care. YDL's will lead by example, use positive behavior management techniques, facilitate conflict resolution, create a welcoming and safe environment, facilitate relationship building, and create positive experiences. This position is offered Extra, Temporary or Part-Time, and offers hours throughout the year.

Essential Functions

• Know, explain, and exemplify the mission, purpose, and values of the Kroc Center and the Salvation Army.


• Assist in leading all Day Camp, Playcare, After-school Enrichment, and other youth activities with enthusiasm according to training protocol established during training, and in accordance with the staff manual.


• Adhere to and implement positive behavior management procedures created for campers.


• Complete “Report to Parents” forms to inform parents, Youth Development Director, Manager, and Coordinators of issues, such as caper injuries, disputes, and behavioral challenges.


• Keep child issues confidential; do NOT share issues with other campers, parents, news organizations, Junior Leaders, or staff members who are NOT involved.


• Adhere to dress code at all times; may be required to wear activity appropriate attire, such as swimwear for aquatic activities.


• Return program equipment to appropriate designated area upon completion of group activity, unless otherwise arranged.


• Clean each program location used with camper/student group prior to leaving the area.


• Facilitate check-in/check-out procedures according to protocol; check ID of each person signing out a camper and ensure the person picking up is on the authorized list.


• Communicate respectfully with peers, supervisors, and customers of various socio-economic backgrounds; handle disputes with participants, parents, and staff in a professional manner with guidance form the Youth Development Director, Manager, and/or Coordinators.


• Enforce facility- and activity-specific regulations to ensure safety; ensure that only registered campers/students participate.


• Maintain safe working environment; report any and all facility defects/problems and any suspicious activities or persons to the Youth Development Director, Manager, or a Coordinator.


• Assist in emergencies and treatment of injured participants, volunteers, and/or staff; follow up by completing appropriate paperwork as directed.


• Perform regular head counts and keep an accurate attendance list of assigned children; plan activities, execute lesson plans, and supervise activity stations with help from other counselors as needed.


• Follow and ensure adherence to The Salvation Army Policy and Procedures and the Day Camp Code of Conduct.


• Act as a mandated reporter of child & elder abuse and report any suspicions or inappropriate behavior to a supervisor immediately.


• Recognize spiritual need of individuals, which may require referral to the officer/pastor.


• Refrain from speaking negatively about others and do not engage in gossip, slander, or inappropriate conversations about children, staff, or parents.


• Perform all other duties as directed.

Working Conditions

Ability to walk, swim, skate, stand, bend, squat, climb, kneel and twist on an intermittent or sometimes continuous basis.  Ability to be able to lift up to 50lbs. Ability to grasp, push, pull objects such as files, file cabinets drawers and reach overhead.  Ability to operate computer, fax and telephone.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum 18 years of age.


• Must be able to read, write, and communicate in English; bilingual English/ Spanish preferred.


• Must work well and relate well with people.


• Must attend staff, child safety, and other trainings as directed.


• Current CPR/First Aid certifications required on first day of work.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and ability to use new software programs with basic training.


• Must have philosophy of education and child development consistent with that of the Salvation Army Kroc Center.


• Must be able to work well with children, parents, and staff in a capacity of leadership, counseling, and education including but not limited to: Ability to relate joyfully and sensitively to children of all ages, Ability to use appropriate discipline consistently, Ability to handle security and crisis situations calmly, ability to handle security and crisis situations calmly, ability to provide constant and continual supervision, and ability to engage and maintain a child’s interest in activities.