Kids Play Team Member (Southwest)

Why Your Role Matters

As a Kids Play Team Member, you’ll care for and engage with children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old, leading fun activities and implementing a curriculum that supports their social, physical, spiritual, and mental development. You’ll meet each child at their level—sometimes that means getting down on the floor or holding little ones. Your mission is to create a safe, uplifting, and energetic environment where kids can grow, play, and thrive. Must have availability Monday through Friday, 7:45 am to 1:15 pm and/or Monday through Tuesday, 3:45 pm to 8:15 pm.

Pay Range: $15.00-$16.00 per hour, DOE

Work Location: Southwest YMCA Center, 6219 Oakclaire Drive, Austin, Texas 78735, United States.

How You Will Make an Impact

• Welcome members and their children warmly, using their names to establish a friendly and cooperative relationship with each family. 
• Lead activities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and problem-solving, promoting self-esteem and appropriate social interactions among children. 
• Interact respectfully and nurturing with children, ensuring their social and emotional development is supported. 
• Engage actively with children, often getting down to their eye level to play and communicate effectively. 
• Maintain a safe environment, adhering to established safety standards and YMCA policies. 
• Ensure children's health, safety, and welfare are always protected, attending to personal hygiene needs as necessary. 
• Uphold YMCA rules and policies consistently and fairly for all members and children. 
• Clean and organize childcare areas throughout and at the end of each shift to maintain a welcoming environment. 
• Communicate effectively with parents about their children's activities and involvement in the program. 
• Lead by example in promoting the YMCA's mission, vision, and values. 
• Serve as an ambassador for the organization with internal and external stakeholders. 
• Be the ultimate storyteller of the YMCA's work and culture. 
• Complete other duties as assigned.  

What You Bring to the Y

• Minimum age requirement of 16 years. 
• Preferred bilingual proficiency in Spanish/English (not required). 
• Previous experience in a childcare setting is advantageous. 
• Experience in caring for children aged 8 weeks (about 2 months) to 12 years. 
• Current certifications in First Aid, CPR/AED, and Emergency Oxygen are preferred. 
• Ability to remain composed and effective in high-pressure situations. 
• Team-oriented mentality with a positive, service-oriented attitude. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and promoting YMCA values. 

Physical Requirements:  

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, talk, and occasionally lift and/or move items, including equipment, furniture, and/or children. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.