Preschool Assistant Teacher (Full-Time)

Alexandria Area YMCA•Alexandria, MN

1d•$16 - $19

About The Position

Make a Meaningful Impact on Young Lives—Every Single Day The Alexandria Area YMCA is seeking a caring, dependable, and enthusiastic Assistant Teacher to join our early childhood team. If you have a passion for working with young children and enjoy creating a warm, safe, and engaging learning environment, we’d love to meet you. This role supports our Lead Teachers in nurturing children during their earliest and most important developmental stages—helping them grow socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively. Position Summary: As an Assistant Teacher, you will work collaboratively with classroom staff to provide a safe, structured, and enriching environment for children. You’ll help implement daily routines and age-appropriate activities while building positive relationships with children, families, and fellow team members.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Some post-secondary education preferred, especially in Early Childhood Education
Prior experience working with young children preferred
Must be patient, compassionate, dependable, and team-oriented
CPR and First Aid certification required (or willingness to obtain)
Ability to pass background checks and meet state licensing requirements
Willingness to enroll in the Child Development Associate (CDA) program within 30 days of hire
Ability to lift children and light equipment (5–50 lbs)
Continuous awareness of child safety and supervision
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, and move throughout the day
Ability to speak and hear clearly
Comfortable participating in both indoor and outdoor activities and dressing appropriately for weather conditions

Nice To Haves

Some post-secondary education preferred, especially in Early Childhood Education
Prior experience working with young children preferred

Responsibilities

Support Lead Teachers in implementing age-appropriate lesson plans and activities
Follow daily schedules including feeding, diapering, napping, playtime, and structured learning
Provide consistent supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all children
Foster a nurturing, positive, and inclusive classroom environment
Communicate daily with parents/guardians regarding activities, meals, and care needs
Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth classroom operations
Step into a leadership role in the absence of the Lead Teacher as needed