AmeriCorps - Youth Development Coach

Are you passionate about leading youth in play-based and recreational environments? Do you want to inspire a school community through the power of play and service? Join Playworks as an AmeriCorps Program Coordinator (Known as a Playworks Coach), where you’ll transform recess into a safe, welcoming, and fun experience for elementary school students.

At Playworks, we believe in the power of play to bring out the best in every kid. We create a place for every kid on the playground to get active, build valuable skills, connect, and have fun. We partner with schools, districts, and after-school programs to provide a service or mix of services, including on-site coaches, professional training for school staff who support recess, and consultative partnerships.

What we offer:

• Full-time position, $3,500 - $3,600 living stipend paid out semi-monthly plus a $6,895 Segal Education Award upon completing 1700 hours. The contract is contingent upon the award of federal funds.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision,
• Professional development and networking opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Room for career growth within our organization.
• The position begins August 1st and runs through the 2025-26 school year, with the option to continue with Playworks the following year.

What You’ll Do:

• Recess: Create a fun and dynamic recess for all students by organizing and leading various games and activities. Be a role model and actively participate in the games to ensure every child has a positive experience.
• Class Game Time: Teach students different games they can play during recess, promoting physical activity, cooperation, and fair play. Help students build confidence and develop skills that they can apply during playtime.
• Junior Coach Leadership Program: Lead a youth leadership program for 4th and 5th graders, training them to become coaches like you. Guide and mentor the Junior Coaches as they assist in managing games during recess. Through this program, students gain valuable skills in conflict resolution, leadership, and more.
• Additional Responsibilities: Maintain communication with Playworks staff, school staff, teachers, and families; organize and manage paperwork; and attend regular training sessions provided by Playworks.

Who We’re Looking For:

• Committed: You can commit to 10 months of national service (August through June).
• Active and Outdoors-Oriented: You enjoy being active, working outdoors, and bringing energy to physically engaging environments.
• Energetic and Passionate: You bring enthusiasm to every interaction, are deeply committed to youth development, and will enjoy playing playground games with elementary school-aged children.
• Positive and Approachable: You bring friendly, welcoming energy to every interaction, and you are able to build strong relationships and foster trust among groups.
• Adaptable and Resilient: You thrive in fast-paced environments and excel at finding creative solutions to challenges.

Locations: Hawthorne, Lennox, South & Central Los Angeles, Westchester

Apply by visiting https://www.playworks.org/about/careers/all-open-positions/job/6745013/?gh_jid=6745013