Woodshop Instructor - Mott Haven

Position: Woodshop Program Specialist

Location: Tiger Clubhouse - 565 Morris Avenue, Bronx, NY 10451

Pay Rate: $30
Employment Type: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Schedule: 20-25 hours per week
Reports To: Associate Clubhouse Director

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About Us

Founded in 1876, The Boys’ Club of New York (BCNY) is a youth development organization with the mission to empower boys and young men, ages 7 to 21, by providing effective programs and a supportive community. BCNY provides evidence-based programs to address the evolving social, emotional, health, creative, educational, and vocational needs of our members in meaningful, lasting ways. BCNY develops programs to cultivate positive qualities in members and strives to continually deepen and broaden our impact.

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Job Summary

Tiger Clubhouse is seeking a skilled and engaging Woodshop Specialist to lead and grow our in-house woodshop program. This role focuses on delivering structured, hands-on learning experiences that introduce members to woodworking fundamentals while encouraging creativity, independence, and craftsmanship.

As the primary facilitator of the woodshop, the specialist- will guide members through progressively challenging projects, helping them build technical skills and confidence over time. The role emphasizes safety, consistency, and meaningful engagement within a dedicated indoor workspace.

Responsibilities

Woodshop Programming & Skill Development

• Design and lead engaging, age-appropriate woodworking sessions for members ages 7-18.

• Teach foundational skills such as measuring, marking, cutting, assembling, sanding, and finishing through clear demonstrations and guided practice.

• Develop project-based learning experiences (e.g., shelves, stools, decorative items, signage, beginner joinery projects) that build skills over time.

• Support members in completing projects from concept to completion, encouraging focus, patience, and pride in their work.

• Adapt instruction to meet a range of skill levels, from beginners to more advanced participants.

• Encourage creativity while reinforcing the importance of planning, accuracy, and craftsmanship.

Safety, Supervision & Area Management

• Maintain a strong culture of safety by consistently enforcing tool usage guidelines and workshop rules.

• Provide close supervision of all tool use, including hand tools and approved power tools, with age-appropriate instruction.

• Conduct routine checks to ensure tools, materials, and workspace are clean, organized, and safe.

• Model proper tool handling, setup, cleanup, and storage practices.

• Prioritize members' understanding and following safety expectations before participating in activities.

Youth Engagement & Supervision

• Create a welcoming, structured environment that promotes respect, responsibility, and collaboration.

• Build positive relationships with members and encourage consistent participation.

• Manage group dynamics within the woodshop, addressing minor behavioral issues proactively.

• Communicate ongoing or more serious concerns to leadership as needed.

• Track member participation, skill development, and overall engagement in the program.

Qualifications

• Experience working with youth in educational, recreational, or after-school settings preferred.

• Background in woodworking, carpentry, construction, or related hands-on disciplines is strongly preferred.

• Ability to safely instruct and supervise youth using tools in a structured indoor environment.

• Strong organizational and lesson-planning skills.

• Clear and effective communicator with a patient, supportive, and restorative teaching style.

• Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and skill-building environment for young people.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 40-50 pounds.

• Reliable, punctual, and adaptable to program needs.

• Willingness to contribute to the broader Clubhouse community as needed.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

The Boys’ Club of New York is an equal opportunity employer??and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected by law. ?If you have a disability or other protected need requiring an accommodation, please contact Human Resources.?