Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ) — a world-renowned education and poverty-fighting organization based in New York — is seeking an enthusiastic, dedicated, and mission-aligned Activity Specialist to support programming at our community centers.

The Activity Specialist will bring a strong passion for Harlem Children’s Zone’s mission: to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty through comprehensive, community-based programming that creates opportunities for children, families, and residents to thrive in school, work, and life.

We are looking for dynamic, part-time Activity Specialists across a variety of disciplines to design and lead engaging programs for children, youth, and community members during after-school and evening hours. Our community members bring a wealth of creativity, energy, and lived experience, and Harlem Children’s Zone provides a supportive environment and resources to help them grow, connect, and succeed.

As an Activity Specialist, you will develop and facilitate engaging lesson plans, group activities, and creative experiences aligned with your area of expertise. You will foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages participation from children, families, and local residents. In addition, you will promote the development of essential life skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and positive decision-making.

For more information, check out Want to Work at Harlem Children’s Zone? Here’s 7 Things You Need to Know.

Requirements

• Must have at least 2 years of teaching experience  

Who you are

·         A commitment to HCZ's mission and the communities we serve 

·         Experience working with students, families, and/or community members

·         Flexibility, creativity, and enthusiasm for community programming

·         Excellent planning, organization, communication, and time management skills

·         Ability to provide consistent and positive instruction as well as receive constructive criticism

·         Ability to work a flexible schedule, available days and evenings

·         Energetic, motivated self-starter and a team player

·         Must be able to work independently as well as collaboratively on projects with staff and students and full curriculum

What you'll do 

·         Plan and facilitate engaging lessons, activities, and units

·         Work with program participants to develop their artistic, educational, and/or leadership potential

·         Coordinate subject-related trips, guest speakers, and other special events

·         Attend weekly staff meetings

·         Share insights discovered with team members on a regular basis

·         Act as a role model

·         Perform other duties as assigned by management

Schedule 

·         On-Site (Monday-Thursday) 5PM – 9PM and Saturdays from 10AM - 3PM

·         During our Summer Camp Program, the Activity Specialists’ schedule will shift to Monday-Thursday from 1PM – 6PM.

Type of activity specialist we are seeking:

• Culinary/Cooking Specialist
• Dance Specialist
• Sports & Recreational Specialist (Weight & Conditioning)

Benefits

As a member of the Harlem Children's Zone team, you will join a supportive and inclusive community dedicated to helping children, families — and our staff — thrive. 

Please take a look at our Part-Time benefits below. 

Our exceptional Part-Time benefits include: 

• Career advancement
• Paid sick leave
• Employee referral bonus 
• Physical wellness discounts
• Commuter benefits
• Additional Benefits (Discounts on flights, hotels, theme parks, concert tickets, and more.)

The hourly rate for this position is $25 - $30 per hour. To be considered, interested applicants should apply directly through the job posting. Harlem Children’s Zone is an EOE.