JOB TITLE: Youth Development Specialist

SUPERVISOR: Program Coordinator

The Christian Neighborhood Center of Norwich, Inc., dba The Place is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Norwich, NY that serves Chenango County. The Place was founded in 1983 and has been serving Chenango County youth and young adults through an established continuum of research-based programs to prepare them for college, career, and citizenship.

Position Summary

The Youth Development Specialist will be under the direct supervision of the KIDS Program Coordinator or Teen Program Coordinator and will be responsible for providing a safe, caring, and enriching environment for the children enrolled in programs at The Place. Staff are responsible for conducting themselves in an appropriate manner, setting an example for children, parents, and co-workers by reflecting The Place’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Staff are responsible for complying with all standards set by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services standards and will assist in ensuring that staff adheres to all organizational and program Policies and Procedures. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & JOB DUTIES

GENERAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

· Communicate with the Site Director daily. 

· Keep a consistent headcount on all children present at site; communicate changes with all other staff.

· Will NOT leave children unattended. Ratio is to be in compliance at ALL TIMES

· Assist in maintaining clean-up schedules, including janitorial duties necessary to maintain the cleanliness of The Place 

· Organize and store materials to ensure order in activity rooms. 

· Maintain daily attendance. 

· Knowledgeable on where emergency information on each child is held and used when needed.

· Comply with all emergency procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, and emergencies. 

· Document incidents and behavior on appropriate forms and give to Program Coordinator 

· Maintain all supplies, equipment, and materials; inform the Program Coordinator when new/additional supplies are needed. 

· Ensure that all staff and children are respectful of The Place property; ensure all The Place rules are followed. 

· Assist in preparing and serving food for children following all NYS Health Codes and CACFP guidelines when preparing and serving foods.

RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN INTERACTING WITH CHILDREN: 

· Plan and implement youth programs and activities that promote growth and development. 

· Develop individualized plans for youth based on their specific needs and goals. 

· Mentor and coach youths to help them develop life skills and positive behaviors. 

· Collaborate with schools, community organizations, and families to support youth. 

· Assess and monitor the progress of each youth participant.

· Organize and lead group activities and workshops.

· Provide crisis intervention and support when necessary. 

· Maintain accurate records and documentation of youth progress and activities.

· Promote a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.

· Coordinate volunteer activities and supervise volunteers.

· Educating youth about available community resources and opportunities

· Develop and implement outreach strategies to engage underserved youth communities.

· Evaluate program effectiveness and make recommendations for improvements. 

· Advocate for youth needs within the community and among stakeholders.

· Facilitate conflict resolution and provide mediation when needed.

· Consistently demonstrate positive interaction with all children; talk to them and treat them with dignity and respect. 

· Consistently demonstrate positive discipline; teach and redirect rather than reprimanding; firmly and consistently enforce the rules.

· Express clear expectations and hold children accountable for adhering to them. 

· Consistently demonstrate and reinforce the values of caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility 

RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN INTERACTING WITH PARENTS: 

· Positively ID parents before releasing children (picture ID necessary until you can personally identify them) 

· Communicate daily with parents regularly regarding program information.

· Encourage parents to participate or volunteer in special events or on field trips. 

JOB QUALIFICATIONS: 

· Current CPR and First Aid certification, preferred.

· At least 18 years of age

· PPD and current medical examination

· Fingerprinting, Statewide Background Check, and Staff Exclusion List Check

EDUCATION: 

· HS Diploma or General Equivalent Diploma, minimum qualifications 

· Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, education, or a related field preferred

· Strong understanding of adolescent development and behavioral management techniques

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KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE: 

Must have the ability to demonstrate and/or show competence in the following areas: 

· Supervising youth and presenting positive role modeling through all interactions with program participants. 

· Be reliable, dependable and on time; Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

· Exercise mature judgment and sound decision making. 

· Learn and follow New York State School-Age Child Care Regulations and other relevant standards/protocols Experience working with children of varied ages highly desired. 

· Strong understanding of adolescent development and behavioral management techniques

· Experience in program development and evaluation

· Proficiency in conflict resolution and problem-solving

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

· Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups.

· Familiarity with local community resources and services

· Strong organizational and multitasking abilities

· Strong commitment to youth development principles

· Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

· Basic computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS: 

The staff will present a competent and positive image of The Place through the professional and safe coordination of all programming, quantified by completion of the key areas of responsibility and continuous improvement of the systems. 

In addition, the program staff will exhibit and represent behaviors consistent with the expectations within The Place competency guidelines listed below: 

· Accepts and demonstrates The Place values.

· Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs.

· Works effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions 

· Builds rapport and relate well to others. 

· Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. 

· Embraces innovative approaches and discovers ideas to create a better learning experience. 

· Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high value experience.  

· Pursues self-development that enhances job performance 

· Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. 

Council Director/Coordinator

Susquehanna Girls on the Run
 

Employer: Christian Neighborhood Center of Norwich, Inc., dba The Place

Reports to: Executive Director of The Place

Service area: Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego counties, New York

Primary location: The Place, Norwich, NY,  or The EPIC Place, Bainbridge, NY with travel throughout the service area

Position status: Part time; weekly hours and employment classification to be finalized

The Place supports youth and families in reaching their full potential. Susquehanna Girls on the Run operates under The Place’s umbrella as an affiliate council of Girls on the Run International, serving Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego counties. The program combines physical activity with an engaging curriculum that helps girls in grades three through eight build confidence, develop healthy relationships, and strengthen social and emotional skills while preparing for a celebratory 5K.

We seek to reduce financial, geographic, and other barriers so participants feel valued, included, and supported. The council’s work emphasizes belonging, positive connections with caring adults, and opportunities for every girl to recognize that she matters.

The Council Director/Coordinator leads the launch, daily operations, and sustainable growth of Susquehanna Girls on the Run. This hands-on role combines council leadership with site development, coach recruitment and training, participant registration, fundraising, and 5K coordination. The position works closely with The Place’s Executive Director, finance and administrative support, the council advisory committee, and Girls on the Run International.

The position leads council operations within approved plans, budgets, and delegated authority. The Place’s Board of Directors retains governance responsibility; the council advisory committee provides support and recommendations. The Executive Director retains organizational oversight, personnel authority, and approval of commitments consistent with The Place’s policies.

· Develop seasonal work plans and a realistic council growth plan with the Executive Director, aligning sites, participant enrollment, volunteer capacity, and available resources.

· Serve as the primary operational liaison with Girls on the Run International; complete required onboarding and training and implement applicable council standards and affiliation requirements.

· Help recruit and support an advisory committee; prepare meeting agendas and updates, coordinate its work, and engage members in outreach, fundraising, and 5K planning.

· Build relationships with schools and community organizations to retain existing sites and establish new sites across all three counties, with attention to rural communities and access barriers.

· Coordinate site applications, agreements, seasonal calendars, registration, family communications, and participant placement using approved systems and procedures.

· Confirm site readiness, coach coverage, supplies, and safety arrangements before programming begins; conduct site visits and respond promptly to concerns.

· Support consistent delivery of the approved curriculum and gather participant, caregiver, coach, and site feedback to improve program quality.

· Coordinate financial assistance under approved policies and help address participation needs such as snacks, appropriate footwear, and local transportation partnerships as resources allow.

· Develop and execute strategies to recruit, retain, and support volunteers, cultivating a strong, mission-driven community of coaches, site liaisons, committee members, and event volunteers.

· Attend and complete required Girls on the Run International training for council leadership and coach trainers; lead and facilitate coach training and ensure coaches complete all required preparation before serving participants.

· Maintain high-quality coaching standards by enforcing current coaching policies and procedures, providing ongoing support, and continually seeking ways to enhance the coach experience.

· Develop and implement meaningful recognition initiatives that celebrate volunteer coaches’ contributions and foster a culture of appreciation and commitment.

· Partner with the Executive Director to develop a diversified funding plan that includes sponsorships, individual gifts, grants, registration revenue, and special events.

· Cultivate donors and sponsors, support proposals and solicitations, track commitments, and provide timely acknowledgments and stewardship in coordination with The Place.

· Develop community partnerships that support scholarships, program supplies, nutritious snacks, volunteers, and equitable participation.

· Represent the council at community meetings and events; coordinate approved outreach, marketing, social media, and impact stories using brand guidelines and participant consent procedures.

· Plan and coordinate the end-of-season 5K with The Place, advisory committee, and community partners, including the event budget, venue, logistics, registrations, volunteers, sponsors, and accessibility.

· Coordinate applicable permissions, insurance needs, emergency planning, and vendor arrangements through The Place’s approval processes; evaluate the event and recommend improvements.

· Help develop the annual council budget; track revenue and expenses with The Place’s finance support, monitor seasonal results, and flag shortfalls or changes requiring approval.

· Maintain participant, coach, site, inventory, and donor records in approved systems; protect confidential information and follow records and consent requirements.

· Provide a concise weekly transition update during startup and regular reports thereafter on sites, coaches, enrollment, scholarships, fundraising, 5K readiness, and decisions needed.

· Coordinate timely program, financial, and grant reporting; follow purchasing, cash handling, reimbursement, and internal control procedures established by The Place.

· Implement applicable participant protection and risk management procedures; promptly document and escalate safety concerns, incidents, and complaints to the Executive Director.

Lead Infant Room Teacher

The Beginning Place - Early Learning Center
 

Employer: Christian Neighborhood Center of Norwich, Inc., dba The Place

Reports to: Early Childhood Coordinator

Primary location: The Beginning Place, Norwich, NY

Position status: Full-Time Part-Time. based on assignment 

Position Summary 

Lead a nurturing infant classroom built on secure relationships, responsive caregiving, and indivdualized routines. Partner with families and guide classroom staff to support each infant's growth and well-being. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Plan developmentally appropriate experiences using Creative Curriculum for Infants & Toddlers and Montessori-inspired practices, including floor play, sensory exploration. language, and movement. 

• Provide consistent feeding, diapering. and rest routines based on each infant's needs and family input; follow center safe-sleep, sanitation, and feeding procedures. 

• Maintain active supervision, accurate attendance, and required classroom staffing; communicate coverage needs promptly. 

• Observe and document development, daily care, and emerging interests; share meaningful updates and concerns with families and the Coordinator. 

• Guide assistant teachers, coordinate daily classroom responsibilities, and model respectful communication and responsive care. 

Qualifications 

• Meet the applicable NYS Office Of Children and Family Services (OCFS) education and experience requirements for the assigned role and age group. 

• Experience caring for infants or toddlers and demonstrated ability to plan teaming experiences and guide classroom staff. 

• Complete required background clearances, health documentation, orientation, and ongoing training; Obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid certification as required by the center. 

• Communicate respectfully, work reliably as pan of a team, and protect the confidentiality of children and families. 

Expectations for All Staff

Follow center policies for child safety, emergency response, health and sanitation, and reporting concerns. Provide inclusive, respectful care; participate in staff meetings and professional development. Perform essential caregiving tasks, including floor-level play and assisting children, with reasonable accommodation as needed. 

 Position Summary Work alongside the Lead Teacher to provide warm, attentive infant care and a calm, safe classroom. Support individual routines, early learning, and trusting relationships with families. Key Responsibilities • Provide responsive feeding, diapering, soothing, and rest support while following individual care plans and center procedures. • Maintain active supervision and communicate attendance, coverage needs, and safety concerns to the Lead Teacher. • Assist with sensory play, songs, books, floor play, and other activities planned for each infant’s development. • Record daily care information accurately and share observations with the Lead Teacher; communicate with families as assigned. • Clean and sanitize classroom materials and care areas; help maintain an organized environment and smooth routines. Qualifications • Meet the applicable NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) education and experience requirements for the assigned role and age group. • Experience with infants or toddlers preferred; willingness to learn responsive care, classroom routines, and developmentally appropriate practices. • Complete required background clearances, health documentation, orientation, and ongoing training; obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid certification as required by the center. • Communicate respectfully, work reliably as part of a team, and protect the confidentiality of children and families. Expectations for All Staff Follow center policies for child safety, emergency response, health and sanitation, and reporting concerns. Provide inclusive, respectful care; participate in staff meetings and professional development. Perform essential caregiving tasks, including floor-level play and assisting children, with reasonable accommodation as needed. Lead Toddler Teacher A program of The Place | Norwich, New York Reports to: Early Childhood Coordinator Status: Full-Time / Part-Time, based on assignment Position Summary Lead a welcoming toddler classroom that supports curiosity, growing independence, language, and social-emotional development. Create predictable routines and guide staff in responsive teaching and positiv 

Position Summary

Lead a welcoming toddler classroom that supports curiosity, growing independence, language, and

social-emotional development. Create predictable routines and guide staff in responsive teaching and positive

guidance.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan engaging learning experiences using Creative Curriculum for Infants & Toddlers and Montessori-inspired practices

tailored to children’s interests and development.

• Support language, movement, sensory exploration, early problem-solving, and practical self-help skills through play.

• Use positive guidance, model emotional regulation, and help children practice sharing, transitions, and communication.

• Oversee meals, rest, diapering, and toilet-learning routines in partnership with families; maintain active supervision and

required staffing.

• Observe and document progress, communicate regularly with families, and guide assistant teachers in classroom

planning and daily responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Meet the applicable NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) education and experience requirements for the

assigned role and age group.

• Experience caring for infants or toddlers and demonstrated ability to plan learning experiences and guide classroom

staff.

• Complete required background clearances, health documentation, orientation, and ongoing training; obtain and

maintain CPR and First Aid certification as required by the center.

• Communicate respectfully, work reliably as part of a team, and protect the confidentiality of children and families.

Expectations for All Staff

Follow center policies for child safety, emergency response, health and sanitation, and reporting concerns. Provide

inclusive, respectful care; participate in staff meetings and professional development. Perform essential caregiving

tasks, including floor-level play and assisting children, with reasonable accommodation as needed.

 Position Summary Support the Lead Teacher in providing an engaging toddler classroom where children feel safe, connected, and encouraged to explore. Help children develop independence and positive relationships through everyday routines and play. Key Responsibilities • Assist with planned learning activities, stories, music, movement, outdoor play, and classroom transitions. • Provide attentive support during meals, rest, diapering, and toilet learning while encouraging age-appropriate independence. • Use positive guidance and supportive language to help children express feelings and build social skills. • Maintain active supervision, support classroom staffing needs, and promptly report concerns or incidents. • Share observations with the Lead Teacher, assist with daily records and family updates as assigned, and maintain clean, organized learning spaces. Qualifications • Meet the applicable NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) education and experience requirements for the assigned role and age group. • Experience with infants or toddlers preferred; willingness to learn responsive care, classroom routines, and developmentally appropriate practices. • Complete required background clearances, health documentation, orientation, and ongoing training; obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid certification as required by the center. • Communicate respectfully, work reliably as part of a team, and protect the confidentiality of children and families. Expectations for All Staff Follow center policies for child safety, emergency response, health and sanitation, and reporting concerns. Provide inclusive, respectful care; participate in staff meetings and professional development. Perform essential caregiving tasks, including floor-level play and assisting children, with reasonable accommodation as needed. Floating Teacher Assistant A program of The Place | Norwich, New York Reports to: Early Childhood Coordinator / Assigned Classroom Lead Teacher Status: Full-Time / Part-Time, based on assignment Position Summary Provide dependable coverage across infant and toddler classrooms to support safe staffing and continuity of care 

Position Summary

The Office Manager coordinates daily administrative operations at The Beginning Place, helping create a welcoming,

organized, and responsive early learning center for infants, toddlers, and their families. This position supports enrollment,

family communication, recordkeeping, and financial administration while working closely with the Early Childhood

Coordinator and The Place’s administrative and accounting team.

Key Responsibilities

• Welcome families and visitors, answer calls and emails, manage office calendars, and follow visitor access and child release

procedures.

• Coordinate enrollment inquiries, tours, waitlists, registration paperwork, and family onboarding; refer placement decisions to

the Coordinator.

• Maintain accurate, secure child and family records; track required forms, health-documentation due dates, attendance, and

enrollment changes.

• Prepare family notices and routine updates; respond respectfully to questions and refer classroom, developmental, or sensitive

concerns to appropriate staff.

• Support tuition billing, payment posting, account reconciliation, and subsidy paperwork; follow up on balances under

established procedures and refer adjustments for approval.

• Coordinate with The Place’s accounting team to submit invoices, receipts, payment records, and other documentation;

maintain clear records and required approvals.

• Collect and organize timesheets, staff onboarding forms, and training records; alert the Coordinator to missing items and

upcoming deadlines.

• Organize records and reports for licensing reviews, funding requirements, and center operations at the Coordinator’s direction.

• Monitor office supplies, coordinate approved purchases and service requests, and assist with meetings, family events, and

other administrative duties.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or coursework in business, office administration, or a related

field preferred.

• Administrative, customer service, or office management experience; experience in childcare or a nonprofit setting preferred.

• Strong organization, attention to detail, discretion, and respectful communication with families from diverse backgrounds.

• Proficiency with email, word processing, spreadsheets, and electronic records; ability to learn enrollment and billing systems

and work accurately with financial information.

• Ability to manage competing priorities, work collaboratively, and complete required background clearances, orientation, and

position-specific training.

Work Expectations

Maintain confidentiality and follow center safety and reporting procedures. Perform essential office duties with reasonable

accommodation as needed. Classroom coverage, if assigned, requires the qualifications, clearances, and training applicable

to that assignment.

Position Summary

The Cook prepares nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks for infants and toddlers at The Beginning Place. This

position maintains a clean, organized kitchen and works closely with the Early Childhood Coordinator and classroom staff

to support safe food service, individual dietary needs, and positive mealtime experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and portion meals and snacks according to approved menus, enrollment counts, classroom schedules, and children’s

developmental needs.

• Work with the Coordinator to plan varied menus, prepare shopping lists, monitor inventory, and order food and kitchen supplies

within approved budgets.

• Follow documented allergy, dietary restriction, and feeding instructions; prevent cross-contact, label foods clearly, and

communicate substitutions before service.

• Prepare appropriate food textures and sizes to reduce choking risks; coordinate infant feeding needs with classroom staff and

handle breast milk, formula, and infant foods only as assigned and trained.

• Follow center procedures for receiving, storing, thawing, cooking, holding, and serving food; monitor and record temperatures

as required by center procedures.

• Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, utensils, equipment, and food-contact surfaces; wash dishes and maintain an

orderly kitchen and storage areas.

• Check deliveries, rotate stock, track expiration dates, minimize waste, and promptly report equipment problems, shortages, or

food safety concerns.

• Maintain menus, meal counts, purchasing records, and other food service documentation; support applicable meal-program

reporting as directed.

• Communicate meal changes and service needs to staff; assist with food preparation for center activities and perform related

kitchen duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred; experience preparing meals in a childcare, school, institutional, or commercial

kitchen preferred.

• Knowledge of safe food handling, sanitation, allergen precautions, and basic nutrition; willingness to learn infant and toddler

feeding practices.

• Ability to follow recipes, adjust quantities, manage meal schedules, maintain accurate records, and communicate effectively

with staff.

• Complete required background clearances, orientation, and food safety training; obtain or maintain food handler certification if

required for the assignment.

Schedule and Work Expectations

Part-time hours are scheduled around center meal preparation and service needs. Perform essential kitchen duties, including

standing, bending, moving supplies, and safely using kitchen equipment, with reasonable accommodation as needed.

Maintain confidentiality and follow center safety and reporting procedures.

We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for youth to get involved in their community and make a difference. From participating in local events to helping out at our center, there's something for everyone!

Background checks and copy of current physical/PPD results required.   

Gain hands-on experience working with children, teens, and families at The Place. As an intern, you’ll work alongside our staff, build practical skills, and help create spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and valued. All interns must complete a background check and provide current medical clearance. For more information, please contact our Executive Director at execdirector@theplacenorwich.com.