Early Learning Assistant Teacher

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids•Grand Rapids, MI

7h•Onsite

About The Position

Join 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. The 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.

Requirements

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.
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

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or CDA PREFERRED

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

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.
Free YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.
Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.