OST Counselor (Afterschool) The Out-of- School Time (OST) Counselor works directly with children in grades K-5 in the city's afterschool program, providing active supervision and creating a safe, positive and engaging environment for learning, recreation and enrichment. The counselor serves as a mentor and positive role model, supports homework and academic activities, manages behavior and conflicts and works with Parks and Recreation staff, schools and families to meet the needs of program participants.
Responsibilities include:
Directly supervise, engage, and mentor children in grades K–5 throughout the afterschool program, including homework, recreation, meals/snacks, transitions, and special activities.
Maintain a safe, positive, inclusive, and respectful environment while monitoring participant behavior and interactions.
Build positive relationships with children and serve as a positive role model and supportive adult.
Plan, prepare, lead, and participate in age-appropriate recreational, educational, enrichment, and social activities, including special events and field trips.
Provide homework assistance, tutoring, mentoring, and academic support as appropriate.
Manage participant behavior, diffuse and resolve conflicts, reinforce program expectations, and follow established safety procedures.
Communicate with parents/guardians, school personnel, and Parks and Recreation staff regarding participant needs, behavior, concerns, and program activities.
Prepare program materials and set up, clean up, and maintain program spaces and facilities as needed.
Assist with attendance, incident documentation, and other routine program records.
Respond to participant, parent/guardian, and community questions and concerns or refer them to the appropriate staff member.
Assist other Parks and Recreation staff with programs, activities, and department operations as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires knowledge of basic office procedures and computer skills. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to work with computers and related software applications on a daily basis.
Must have good verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department staff, the general public and other city officials.
Ability to handle citizens, personnel and the public professionally and politely.
Ability to attend additional training as assigned.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have a valid State of Georgia driver's license (Non-commercial Class A or B) with a satisfactory motor vehicle record (MVR) or state issued ID.Must be able to pass a criminal background check, work reference check, pre-employment post-offer physical and drug screen.
Education and Experience:
Must have one year of training and/or education or equivalent experience in school-age care, child development or related fields. High school diploma or equivalent required. Previous experience dealing with the public is preferred.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
- CPR, First Aid, and Prevent Child Abuse certifications or the ability to obtain within six months is required.
- Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:
- Must be able to sit, walk, and stand for long periods.
- Can lift and carry heavy objects (10-50 lbs.) sit, bend, squat, and twist daily; must be able to physically operate city vehicle.
- Have the ability to sit for long periods using office equipment and computers.
- Have the ability to walk and stand outdoors (playgrounds and parks) setting including the pool while in extreme heat and cold for up to 8 hours daily.
- Have a personal vehicle to drive for daily business on a mileage reimbursement basis.
- Must deal with constant interruptions, noise, and meet with others on a regularly.
- The employee may be exposed to a variety of extreme weather conditions. Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, lift, climb, and perform repetitive motions on a daily.
- Ability to operate computer software, including word processing software; calculator; copy and fax machine; phone; mobile or portable radio.
- Must be available to work weekdays, weeknights, weekends, and operational holidays.
How to Apply:
All applications must be submitted online. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERThe City of Decatur is committed to having a workforce that reflects diversity at all levels and is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.
