Child Development Academy - Assistant Director/Lead Teacher

Assistant Director/Lead Teacher Child Development Academy | Full-Time | Non-Exempt Do you love working with children and mentoring teachers? Are you ready to take the next step into leadership while staying connected to the classroom? The YMCA is seeking a hands-on Assistant Director/Lead Teacher to support the daily operations of our Child Development Academy. This leadership role combines administrative responsibilities with direct classroom involvement. You'll work alongside the Center Director to ensure a safe, nurturing, and high-quality learning environment while regularly serving as a Lead Teacher to support classrooms, maintain staff-to-child ratios, and model best practices in early childhood education. What You'll Do Support the daily operations of the Child Development Academy.Help ensure compliance with Georgia Bright from the Start (DECAL) licensing regulations and YMCA policies.Provide leadership, coaching, and support to teaching staff.Build positive relationships with children, families, and team members.Assist with staff scheduling, classroom coverage, and center operations.Step into classrooms as a Lead Teacher as needed to maintain ratios and ensure continuity of care.Develop and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans when serving in the classroom.Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming learning environment.Assist with family engagement, special events, and other center initiatives. What We're Looking For Passion for early childhood education and child development.Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.Ability to balance administrative responsibilities with hands-on classroom leadership.Positive attitude, flexibility, and commitment to teamwork.Dedication to the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. Minimum Qualifications Must be at least 21 years of age.High School diploma or GED.Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC) in Early Childhood Education required.Associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.Must enroll in a Georgia DECAL-approved Director Credential Program within 90 days of hire and successfully complete the credential in accordance with DECAL requirements.Minimum of one year of experience in a licensed early childhood education program required.Previous lead teacher or supervisory experience preferred.Current CPR, First Aid, and Fire Safety certifications (or ability to obtain upon hire).Ability to successfully complete a Criminal Background Check. Why Join the YMCA? Competitive pay, benefits, and PTO.Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance available. Employer paid Life Insurance, and Short and Long Term Disability Insurance. Employer pays 12% of your pay into the YMCA Retirement Fund after vesting period.10 Paid HolidaysPTO accrual beings after 6 months of service. FREE Family Metro Membership to the YMCA.Discounted Childcare at CDAProfessional development opportunities. Endless high-fives and adorable drawings!A fun and supportive team that feels like family. At the YMCA, we're more than a childcare center-we're building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. You'll have the opportunity to grow professionally, make a meaningful impact every day, and work alongside a team that is passionate about helping children thrive. The YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.