Preschool Assistant Teacher

About the role

The Assistant Teacher will assist in the planning, developing, and implementing of classroom activities for preschool programs. This position requires on‑site, face‑to‑face leadership.

Responsibilities

• Assists Site Coordinator/Supervisor in developing and leading daily lesson plans
• Actively engages with children in the classroom
• Assists with daily parent communication
• Prepares materials for daily activity
• Maintains records of attendance, arrival, and departure times
• Maintains supervision of children
• Assists Site Supervisor with parent‑teacher conferences as needed
• Efficiently communicates with classroom teaching team
• Performs any other functions deemed necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association

Requirements

• Associate's degree or CDA preferred, or proof of current enrollment in a CDA or college‑level degree program required
• Three to six months of childcare‑related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles
• Ability and desire to work with and care for infants, toddlers, and preschool children
• Blood Borne Pathogen training
• CPR Certification required within the first 60 days
• First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days
• State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)
• Fingerprinting
• DHS clearance
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Benefits

Full‑time Benefits

• Free YMCA Family Membership – full access to facilities & program discounts for you and your family
• 50% Childcare Discount – 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) – up to $1,040 in employer contributions each year
• 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 – accident, hospital, pet, legal, and more
• Pay on Demand – access earned wages before payday
• Professional Growth – access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities
• Loan Forgiveness – eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family

Part‑time Benefits

• Free YMCA Individual Membership – full access to facilities
• Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no