Preschool Assistant Teacher in Grand Rapids, Michigan at YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids

Join the YMCA at Sylvan Head Start 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. 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 GRSEPN Assistant Teacher will assist in the planning, developing, and implementing of classroom activities for 3-year-old preschool programs. This position requires on site, face-to-face leadership between 10 AM - 3 PM, Monday through Friday. The Assistant Teacher will serve as a float teacher, providing support across multiple classrooms as needed. Responsibilities include providing break coverage, supporting teacher planning time, and assisting with classroom coverage during staff call-outs.

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; Part-Time (up to 25 hours/week)

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.

QUALIFICATIONS

Associate's degree or CDA and at least one year childcare center 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.