Early Childhood Assistant Teacher — Growth & Development

Whatcom Family YMCA; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA membership

Discounts on programs

Professional development

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Whatcom Family YMCA in Bellingham, WA, is seeking an Assistant Preschool Teacher to support the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children ages 3–5. You’ll help foster curiosity, facilitate learning through play, and support children’s social, emotional, and physical development.

This role is ideal for individuals passionate about early childhood education and looking to grow within a supportive, mission-driven organization.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older and a high school graduate (or equivalent).
• Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• Current CPR (Adult, Infant & Child) and First Aid, AED certifications.
• Complete Praesidium Child Abuse prevention training within 15 days of hire.
• STARS 30 Hour Childcare Basic Training (Must be completed within 3 months of hire date; this is an unpaid training with reimbursement available from WA State)
• Must have or be in the process of obtaining the following: Negative TB Test
• HIV/Bloodborne Pathogen training
• Safe Sleep
• MERIT ID account
• Food Handlers Card
• Cleared Portable Background Check from MERIT
• MMR Immunization Record
• Willingness to obtain the ECE initial certificate or equivalent (approximately 12 credits).

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning and implementing classroom activities that support the YMCA’s early learning curriculum
• Supervise children to ensure their safety and well-being at all times
• Promote positive behavior management and conflict resolution skills
• Support individual learning styles and developmental needs
• Maintain a clean, organized, and engaging classroom environment
• Build strong relationships with children, families, and co-workers
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities
• Comply with all licensing and YMCA policies and procedures

Skills

Curriculum planning & activities

Child supervision

Behavior management

Relationship building

Professional development

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CPR/First Aid/AED certification

Praesidium Child Abuse prevention training

STARS 30 Hour Childcare Basic Training

TB test

HIV/Bloodborne Pathogen training

Safe Sleep training

MERIT ID account

Food Handlers Card

Cleared MERIT background check

MMR Immunization Record

Willingness to obtain ECE initial certificate

Job description

Whatcom Family YMCA in Bellingham, WA, is seeking an Assistant Preschool Teacher to support the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children ages 3–5. You’ll help foster curiosity, facilitate learning through play, and support children’s social, emotional, and physical development.

This role is ideal for individuals passionate about early childhood education and looking to grow within a supportive, mission-driven organization.