Program Assistant (Fall 2026)
Breakthrough New York empowers motivated students from low-income communities to achieve a college degree and reach their fullest potential. Our tuition-free program supports over 500 students and their families from 7th grade through college. We accept middle school students who are furthest from high-quality educational opportunities yet show promise and potential: 99% of students identify as persons of color; 76% qualify for free or reduced lunch; and 66% will be the first in their families to graduate college. As a ten-year program, Breakthrough New York supports students and their families through key transition points in their academic journeys. We provide academic enrichment through summer and after-school opportunities; coach students to gain admissions into selective high schools and colleges, and expose students to diverse interests and careers so they can shape their own trajectories. In addition to nurturing individual talent, we cultivate a thriving community of like-minded peers and mentors who encourage each other's ambitions and passions. Personalized mentorship and holistic support are signature elements of our model, with over 200 near-peer seasonal staff and volunteers who work with students at each stage of our continuum. The Breakthrough model works: 94% of Breakthrough students enroll in college preparatory high schools, and 97% are on track to graduate from college in four-six years.
As a Program Assistant you will work directly with our Program Manager, After School Instructors, Tutors, coaches and students to prepare for and execute successful after-school programming. You will be responsible for supporting program logistics and operations for one of our Middle School After School program sites. After-School Program Assistants will work at one of two sites based on their preference:
- Queens: Forte Prep High School, 7802 Queens Boulevard
- Manhattan: The Town School, 540 East 76th Street, New York, NY 10021
Responsibilities:
- Supporting logistics and operations for our after-school programming at one of our 2 sites in Manhattan or Queens/Brooklyn
- Supporting with attendance entry, snack setup and delivery, and online collections systems
- Facilitating site inventory and supply ordering
- Supporting the planning and execution of on-site events
- Assisting in site maintenance (snack clean up, event breakdown, etc.)
- Being a role model at all times
- Other duties based on the BTNY site at which you are assigned
Schedule and Time Commitment:
- This role is hired on a semester basis. The initial appointment covers the Fall semester only (September 16th, 2026 - December 16th, 2026). Continuation into the Spring semester is not guaranteed; however, staff who meet performance expectations and where program needs remain will likely be invited to return under a separate Spring semester contract. Conversations about potential Spring renewal typically begin in October, with Spring contracts signed before the end of November.
- You will provide onsite logistical and operational support every Monday and Wednesday from 4:00 - 7:00 pm throughout the academic semester (September - December).
- You will also have regular check-ins with your supervisor.
- You will be required to attend:
- September 16 and September 21: Program Assistant in Person Training, 4:00 - 7:00 PM Additional virtual training sessions may be scheduled as needed.
- September 23 - December 16: In-person programming on Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:00-7:00 PM
We're Looking for Someone Who:
- Can demonstrate experience and results with similar responsibilities to those listed above
- Is passionate about forming relationships with middle school students, while acting as a role model at all times
- Is a current college student and/or is 18 or older
- Can commit to the entire Fall 2026 Term (September 16th - December 16th)
- Is confident with Zoom, Google Drive, and comfortable learning new systems
- Demonstrates excellence in BTNY's Core Values
Compensation:
Program Assistants will be compensated at a rate of $17.00/hr
About Breakthrough New York
Mission: Breakthrough New York empowers motivated students from low-income communities to access a college education and pursue the career of their choosing.
Vision: In New York City, every student has the opportunity to achieve a college degree and pursue the career of their choosing.
Our Hiring Process
Stage 1: Application Review
Stage 2: Interview
Stage 3: Offer
Stage 4: Hired
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