Early Learning Assistant Teacher

Grand Rapids Central Station Early Childhood CenterJoin our team at the new Grand Rapids Central Station Early Childhood Center, located within The Rapid Central Station, creating an environment to meet families where they live. The center prioritizes delivering accessible, affordable early care and education to children and wraparound services to whole families and the broader community at an intersection of transportation and childcare needs.Classrooms are scheduled to open in Fall 2026, with opportunities for employment beginning as early as this summer.Position SummaryThe Early Learning Assistant Teacher will assist in the planning, developing, and implementing of classroom activities for programs. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program and requires Monday - Friday availability.Essential FunctionsAssists 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 – Enjoy full access to facilities & program discounts for you and your family!50% Childcare Discount – Discount is off the regular rate for each child enrolled in a YMCA childcare program, excluding the infant room.Comprehensive Medical Coverage – Up to 93% employer paid plan options through Blue Care Network.Dental and Vision Insurance – low-cost coverage options.Health Savings Account (HSA) – Receive up to $1,040 in employer contributions each year to help cover qualified medical expenses.Generous Paid Time Off – Beginning with 3 weeks of PTO per year, plus 9 paid holidays.Paid Parental Leave - Dedicated time off to support you during the arrival or adoption of a child.Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.Paid Disability Leave – short & long term disability coverage.Life Insurance – employer paid life insurance, plus voluntary coverage for the entire family.Optional Insurance – Customize your coverage with options like accident, hospital, pet, and legal insurance, plus more to fit your lifestyle and needs.Pay on Demand – Access your earned wages before payday.Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.Loan Forgiveness – Eligible employees can also take advantage of Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.Part Time BenefitsFree YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.RequirementsQualificationsAssociate's degree or CDA PREFERRED; 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)FingerprintingWork Environment and Physical Demands: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Travel: 0 - 5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.