Teen Group Leader in Cambridge

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT: The Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) creates and coordinates services that enhance the quality of life for Cambridge residents. Driven by the needs of residents, DHSP's extensive services and programs touch almost every sector in the city: from newborns to senior citizens, from school-aged children to homeless families, from non-profit organizations to local employers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The Group Leader position is directly responsible, in partnership with the Program Director, for a small cohort of high school teens between the ages of 14‑19, including team building, curricular development, behaviour management, improving performance, and maintaining culture consistent with Cambridge Youth Program's values. The Group Leader will work with the Program Director and Youth Center Director to lead a diverse group of teens through programmed activities, service projects, civic engagement, and leadership development. The overall goals for the Group Leader are to provide direct supervision, mentorship, and support to their cohort (small group) and families throughout their engagement at our centres.

• Manage cohort activities and behaviours during centre activities inside and outside of building.
• Assist the Program Director in overseeing the implementation of policies and procedures at the Youth Center as they relate to youth members in our programs.
• Inform the Program Director of specific Youth Center members’ needs or concerns that are brought to their attention.
• Plan, design, organize, and implement age‑appropriate Youth Center programs, paid internships and activities for cohorts and programs for teens between the ages of 14‑19.
• Provide a safe, structured, and stimulating environment for Youth Center members and volunteers.
• Attend and participate fully in staff meetings, planning sessions, other meetings, staff development and training programs and activities as directed.
• Conduct regular cohort meetings.
• Be a positive role model and develop meaningful relationships with Youth Center members.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Experience and Education: Two years' experience working with youth in an academic, recreational, or athletic setting. HS Diploma/GED required; some post‑secondary education preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Group management skills and facilitation skills.
• Conflict resolution and an understanding of restorative justice.
• Understanding of positive youth development.
• Effective communication skills with youth and adults.
• Interest and ability to engage and support families.
• Ability to create and support curricular/activity design and implementation.
• Familiarity with Cambridge neighbourhoods preferred.

The City of Cambridge’s workforce, like the community it serves, is diverse. Applicants must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS, WORKING CONDITIONS, WORK FLEXIBILITY AND ACCOMMODATIONS: Main work environment is busy Youth Center. The noise level can be very loud. Youth Centers include classroom‑like settings, open environments, and gymnasiums. Must be able to lift fifty pounds and participate in activities that require physical exertion. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS: Eligible for part‑time sick leave accrual, City employee commuter benefits (T‑Pass reimbursement, Bluebikes membership, EZRide Shuttle membership), Eligible for Tuition Reimbursement/Advancement, Paid Professional Development, Employee Assistance Program.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: Please upload the following documents to complete your application: Resume, Cover Letter.