Full-Time Early Learning Teacher Assistant

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Area F (Trout Creek Valley); On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking passionate Early Learning Teacher Assistants to inspire the leaders of tomorrow. In this full-time role, you will collaborate with the Lead Teacher to create developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children aged 3-5 years. Your responsibilities will include promoting high-quality teaching, ensuring children's safety, and maintaining compliance with educational standards. With a strong focus on professional development and a supportive work environment, this position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young learners while enjoying competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Insurance

Dental and Vision Insurance

Wellness Programs

Flexible Work Hours

Generous Paid Time Off

403(b) Plan with Company Contributions

Opportunities for Ongoing Learning

Discounts on Programs

Employee Assistance Programs

Sponsored Events

Qualifications

• Minimum of a high school diploma with early childhood education credits.
• Experience working with children is essential.

Responsibilities

• Support the Lead Teacher in providing a positive classroom environment.
• Engage in lesson planning and classroom management.

Skills

Child Development Knowledge

Classroom Management

Communication Skills

Culturally Appropriate Practices

Lesson Planning

Education

High School Diploma or GED

6 College Credits in Early Childhood Education

ECE CDA or Comparable Credential

Job description

Description

Inspire the leaders of tomorrow. Buehler YMCA located in Palatine, IL is hiring full-time Early Learning Teacher Assistants!

The Teacher Assistant, in collaboration with the Lead Teacher, provides support in effective instructional strategies, classroom management, learning, assessment, evaluation, and related research for children aged 3-5 years old. The Assistant Teacher is responsible for providing developmentally appropriate learning experiences, supervising children, and creating a supportive and positive classroom climate, while ensuring the individual needs of the children are met according to DCFS, ExceleRate Illinois, NAEYC, and other standards.

Salary range is $16.20-$16.50 per hour, with full-time benefits and opportunities for growth within the organization.

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset

Our teams bring valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that have a positive community impact. We offer numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Competitive salaries based on skills and experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership
• Generous paid time off, including holidays, with flexible work hours
• 403(b) plan with company contributions after 2 years
• Opportunities for ongoing learning through workshops and training
• A diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance, and sponsored events

What you'll do

• Promote high-quality teaching and learning that fosters academic readiness
• Demonstrate culturally and linguistically appropriate practices that value all children and families
• Ensure children's physical health and safety at all times
• Communicate effectively with parents and encourage their involvement
• Maintain compliance with DCFS and other quality standards
• Collaborate with the classroom team, including families and volunteers
• Use multiple data sources to inform instruction and support child development
• Engage in professional development and continuous quality improvement
• Support recruitment, enrollment, attendance, and retention efforts

Lesson Planning and Classroom Management

• Collaborate with Lead Teacher on lesson plans with clear goals and outcomes
• Assist in implementing developmentally appropriate activities following standards
• Lead classroom in the absence of the Lead Teacher
• Use observational data to plan engaging and developmentally suitable experiences
• Support a safe, attractive, and engaging classroom environment
• Manage classroom organization and materials effectively

Minimum & Preferred Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED, with at least 6 college credits in Early Childhood Education
• ECE CDA or comparable credential preferred
• Experience working with children
• Knowledge of child development and appropriate practices
• Ability to interpret standards and licensing requirements
• Strong rapport-building skills with children, families, and colleagues

Child Abuse Prevention

• Report hazards and suspicious behavior
• Follow policies on child safety and supervision
• Complete required child abuse prevention training