Program Director, School-Based Clubs

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Job Type

Full-time

Description

Title: Director of School-Based Clubs

Supervisor: Chief Operating Officer

Site Location: The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton – 181 Colfax Ave, Clifton NJ, 07013

Exempt/Nonexempt: Exempt

About The Boys & Girls Club Of Clifton

Clifton, New Jersey is the third most diverse city in America by languages spoken and has a proud history of being a first stop city for generations of immigrants. Since 1947 the Boys & Girls Club (BGCC) has supported the Clifton community in providing quality youth development programs for youth aged 3-18. The BGCC serves over 6,000 youth annually, and continues to grow, remaining dedicated to the community’s ever-changing needs. We are committed to ensuring every child has access to our exceptional programs and services, aiming to enrich their lives and shape their futures. We are seeking individuals who will listen to the children, respect, and honor their diversity, while helping us maintain a safe environment where they can have fun and be themselves. We are looking for passionate people who are excited to support our mission: to empower and inspire all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as responsible, caring, and productive citizens. If you're ready to make a difference and help inspire our children, join us today!

Position Summary

The Director of School-Based Clubs (DOSC) provides overall leadership, coordination, and management of BGCC’s off-site before and after school programs housed in elementary schools throughout the City of Clifton. The DOSC leads daily operations of school-based programs; manages and develops staff; ensures regulatory compliance; oversees high-quality curriculum and care; builds strong relationships with families, schools and community partners; and supports the strategic growth of school-aged youth development programs. The DOSC is both a strategic leader and a hands-on presence at our off-site programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Leadership, Curriculum & Quality
• Oversee daily operations of all school-based programs, ensuring smooth schedules, routines, and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Implement, assess, and continuously improve a curriculum of hands-on learning and high-yield activities aligned with out-of-school-time best practices and BGCC youth development outcomes.
• Conduct regular site observations and promote trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and inclusive learning environments.

2 .? Licensing, Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure full compliance with NJDCF, NJDOH, and all state and local childcare licensing regulations.
• Maintain accurate child and staff records, attendance, incident reports, and required documentation.
• Stay current on licensing requirements and ensure staff follow all regulations, including mandated reporting.
• Staff Management, Coaching & Culture
• Recruit, onboard, supervise, evaluate, and schedule staff to maintain proper ratios and continuity of care.
• Provide ongoing coaching, professional development, and support to foster a collaborative, growth-oriented culture.
• Model professionalism, integrity, and leadership for staff, children, and families.
• Family, School & Community Partnerships
• Build strong, trusting relationships with families through clear communication, conferences, and engagement opportunities.
• Collaborate with Clifton Public Schools and community partners to support student transitions and strengthen program impact.
• Operations, Budget & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Ensure program spaces are safe, clean, welcoming, and well-equipped for high-quality care and instruction.
• Manage budgets, vendors, and resources in collaboration with Club leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Safety, Crisis Response & Professional Conduct
• Champion safety, emergency preparedness, confidentiality, and proper facility maintenance.
• Effectively problem-solve, manage crises, and complete all required training and professional development.

Physical Demands

• Standing, walking, occasional running/jogging, leaning, bending, and sitting. Must be able to lift 30 lbs.

Qualifications

Required:

• Meets all NJDCF requirements for a center director
• Experience in a state licensed childcare setting with increasing responsibility
• Experience supervising or training staff
• Strong understanding of youth development and positive behavior guidance
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to maintain boundaries and confidentiality
• Ability to pass all required background checks and health clearances
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Elementary Education or related field
• Director, Assistant Director, or Site Supervisor experience in a licensed center
• Experience with diverse children and families, including special needs
• Bilingual or multilingual (especially English/Spanish)

Schedule

Full-time, primarily Monday–Friday, with occasional evenings or weekends for events and meetings.

Compensation

$65k–$75k commensurate with experience, plus benefits (health, dental, vision, PTO, holidays, retirement, professional development).