Early Learning Center Site Aide

YMCA of Pierce & Kitsap Counties•Tacoma, WA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is hiring a caring, positive Early Learning Site Aide for the New Adventures Early Learning Center in Tacoma, Washington. This year-round, intermediate-level childcare role assists the Lead Teacher with planning, organizing, and implementing Early Learning Center services and programs, and works under the Lead Teacher’s direction. The aide supports a child-centered, comprehensive, and multicultural learning environment that meets the needs of every child, including children with disabilities. The role includes maintaining a clean and safe site, engaging children, communicating with families and colleagues, following YMCA and state licensing procedures, and supporting YMCA community and fundraising activities. This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, for 40 hours per week. The posted wage is $17.51 to $20.39 per hour. Compensation is based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of the range. Employment is contingent upon successfully completing applicable post-offer requirements, which may include age verification, reference checks, and state and national background checks.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 18 years of age.
One or more years of experience in an Early Learning Center.
Have or be willing to obtain an Early Childhood Education Initial Certificate.
Possess or be able to obtain CPR and First Aid certification, a TB test, a Food Handler’s Card, Child Care Basic STARS, proof of MMR vaccination, and a Merit account.
Flexibility and ability to adapt to the needs of children and the program.
Commitment to the YMCA’s mission and values.
Desire to have fun, engage with children, and inspire creativity.
Commitment to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and move quickly to engage with children.
Ability to pass background and reference checks, including DCYF background checks, in accordance with the Washington State Fair Chance Act.
Ability to complete Child Abuse Prevention training on the first day of employment and other required training.
Full-time availability Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week.

Responsibilities

Assist the Lead Teacher with planning, organizing, and implementing Early Learning Center services and programs.
Support the Site Director in implementing an integrated, child-centered, comprehensive curriculum and multicultural environment that meets each child’s needs, including children with disabilities.
Engage children and maintain the program and site in compliance with state licensing standards.
Maintain the site and equipment, implement proper cleaning procedures, and help keep facilities, schools, and community sites clean and orderly.
Perform frequent touchpoint cleaning and sanitizing in assigned areas.
Attend and participate in family nights and program activities as applicable and agreed upon.
Build positive relationships and communicate effectively with parents; greet parents and establish friendly rapport.
Maintain positive public relations with members and represent the YMCA’s best interests.
Treat participants fairly and equally regardless of circumstances or abilities, and encourage a fun environment that supports children’s self-esteem.
Follow YMCA guidelines, policies, and procedures, including those concerning medical and disciplinary situations, Child Abuse Prevention, and emergencies.
Understand and follow Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines.
Complete required forms daily and monthly.
Communicate effectively with Site Leaders, Site Directors, and Program Directors.
Support the staff leadership team in achieving campaign goals by recruiting campaigners, making personal asks, and supporting branch events; contribute to charitable fundraising and tell the Y story.
Promote an inclusive and equitable work environment.
Complete Child Abuse Prevention training on the first day of employment and other required online or in-person training.
Assume other responsibilities as mutually agreed upon with the supervisor and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision benefit plan options.
YMCA-provided life and long-term disability insurance.
YMCA household membership.
Accrual of 15 days of paid vacation, with accrual increasing with years of service.
Eight paid holidays or floating holidays per year.
Paid sick leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked.
Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), digital mental health counseling platform, wellness programs, and discount programs.
Professional training, education, and certification opportunities.
Opportunity to participate in the YMCA 403(b) retirement savings plan.
8% monthly employer contribution to the YMCA pension plan after two years of full-time employment.
20% discount on YMCA programs, childcare services, and merchandise.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full-time employees.