Childcare Assistant Teacher

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionDescription: Join the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids and earn a sign-on bonus! New hires for Early Learning who apply on or after October 12 and start before November 16, 2026, are eligible for a sign-on bonus. Full-time staff can earn up to $800 throughout their first year, while part-time staff working an average of at least 10 hours per week can earn up to $500. Start your journey with the Y and make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families! POSITION SUMMARY:The Early Learning Assistant Teacher will assist in the planning, developing, and implementing of classroom activities for infant, toddler, or preschool programs. This position requires on site, face-to-face leadership. Center hours vary by location, but generally require flexible scheduling between 6 AM and 6 PM.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Assists Site Coordinator/Supervisor in developing and leading daily lesson plansActively engages with children in the classroomAssists with daily parent communicationPrepares materials for daily activityMaintains records of attendance, arrival, and departure timesMaintains supervision of childrenAssists Site Supervisor with parent-teacher conferences as neededEfficiently communicates with classroom teaching teamPerforms any other functions deemed to be necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids AssociationCOMPENSATION$15.21 - $19.01 ; Non-Exempt, Full-Time (40 hours/week) or Part-Time (up to 25 hours/week)FULL TIME BENEFITSFree YMCA Family Membership!50% discount off the regular rate for each child registered in a YMCA childcare program. Full-time YMCA employees working in a licensed childcare program will receive a 50% discount on all Early Learning (excluding infant room), School-Age, and Day Camp registrations.Health/Dental/Vision InsurancePaid Time Off, beginning at 3 weeks per year9 Paid Holidays per year12% retirement contribution upon eligibility, learn more here403(b) retirement savings accountThe YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. More information can be found here.Paid Parental LeaveLong term disability, basic life insurance and other voluntary benefitsOngoing training and development opportunitiesAccess to the Employee Assistance Program and resources for you and your familyCommunity Discounts, and more!PART TIME BENEFITSFree YMCA Individual Membership12% retirement contribution upon eligibility, learn more here.403(b) retirement savings accountOngoing training and development opportunitiesAccess to the Employee Assistance Program and resources for you and your familyCommunity Discounts, and more! Requirements: QUALIFICATIONSAssociate's degree or CDA PREFERRED, or proof of current enrollment in CDA or college level degree program required; three to six months childcare related experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience preferred. Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. Ability and desire to work with and care for infants, toddler, and preschool children.CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONSBlood Borne Pathogen trainingCPR Certification required within the first 60 daysFirst Aid Certification required within the first 60 daysState of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)FingerprintingDHS clearanceNegative T.B. skin testDocumentation of physical examWORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.PM21Compensation details: 15.21-19.01 Hourly WagePI37396221ebcf-25405-37958857 YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids