Early Learning Assistant Teacher

Description

Join the David D. Hunting YMCA Child Development Center 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 early childhood education programs. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• 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 to be necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association

COMPENSATION

$15.21 - $19.01 ; Non-Exempt, Full-Time (40 hours/week), Part-Time (up to 25 hours/week)

FULL-TIME BENEFITS

• Free 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 BENEFITS

• Free 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.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

Associate's degree or CDA PREFERRED; three to six months childcare related experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience required. 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, REGISTRATIONS

• 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

WORK 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.