Teacher Aide

YWCA Greater Harrisburg – Pre-K Counts Program

Do you enjoy working with children and have a passion for preparing healthy meals? Join the YWCA Greater Harrisburg as a Classroom Float / Cook and play a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where young children can learn, grow, and thrive.

This unique, year-round position combines food service and classroom support. You'll prepare nutritious meals that fuel children's success while also stepping into classrooms to provide supervision, assist teachers, and ensure high-quality care throughout our Pre-K Counts program.

Position Details

• Full-Time: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Year-Round Position

What You'll Do

As the Cook:

• Prepare nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snacks in accordance with USDA CACFP guidelines.
• Plan and post monthly menus.
• Order, receive, and properly store food while monitoring inventory and expiration dates.
• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and ensure compliance with all Department of Health food safety standards.

As the Classroom Float:

• Float between classrooms to maintain required teacher-to-child ratios.
• Provide attentive supervision and ensure children's safety at all times.
• Assist teachers with daily classroom activities, lessons, and routines.
• Foster positive relationships with children through engaging, age-appropriate interactions.
• Respond calmly and appropriately to emergencies, accidents, and children's needs.
• Help maintain a clean, welcoming classroom environment.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys variety in their day, loves working with children, and wants to make a meaningful impact both in the kitchen and the classroom.

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED with experience in institutional or restaurant food preparation.
• Minimum of two (2) years experience working with diverse groups of young children.
• Thorough understanding of the principles of child development and preschool educational methods.
• Ability to be mentally alert and observant at all times when responsible for children.
• Ability to speak and read clearly to communicate easily with children under care with knowledge of language development and understanding.
• FBI, Child Abuse, and State Police Clearances; as well as required DPW Health Assessment and Tuberculosis test successfully completed.

Why You'll Love Working With Us – Check Out Our Awesome Benefits!

✨ Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you healthy

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Because your well-being matters
❤️ Life Insurance – Peace of mind for you and your loved ones

Short & Long-Term Disability – We've got your back when life takes an unexpected turn

Pension Retirement Plan – Start earning a pension after just two short years of service

403(b) Retirement Plan – Begin contributing on day one to secure your financial future

Generous Paid Time Off – Recharge with paid time off days and sick days

11 Paid Holidays – Extra time to relax, celebrate, and enjoy what matters most