Preschool Aide

YWCA of Hawai'i Island; Hilo (HI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Family-friendly workplace

Opportunities for growth and professional development

Job summary

The YWCA of Hawai'i Island is seeking a compassionate Preschool Aide to support lead teachers in delivering high-quality education and care for children. The role involves assisting with learning activities, supporting classroom routines, and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment. Candidates should have a High School Diploma or GED, a passion for early childhood development, and should be able to work effectively in a team. Additional qualifications include CPR certification and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Qualifications

• 1-3 months of experience working with young children preferred.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Current TB clearance.
• CPR and First Aid Certification required after hire.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing and implementing learning activities.
• Support teachers in carrying out curriculum and daily routines.
• Maintain a positive and nurturing environment for children.

Skills

Passion for early childhood development and education

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Dependable, flexible, and collaborative team member

Cultural sensitivity

Ability to multitask and adapt

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Career Opportunities with YWCA of Hawai'i Island

Join the YWCA of Hawai'i Island Team as a Preschool Aide!

At the YWCA of Hawai'i Island, we are committed to our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. We are looking for a compassionate and dependable Preschool Aide to join our early childhood education team and support our Preschool Lead Teachers in delivering high‑quality care and education to our keiki.

Position Overview

As a Preschool Aide, you will assist with implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum, support classroom routines, and foster a safe and inclusive environment that promotes children's growth and learning. This role is vital in ensuring smooth classroom operations and enhancing the preschool experience for every child.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing and implementing learning activities that foster children’s development in areas such as language, social skills, emotional regulation, and motor skills.
• Support teachers in carrying out curriculum and daily routines.
• Prepare and organize classroom materials and supplies.
• Maintain a positive, respectful, and nurturing environment for children.
• Interact with children in a developmentally appropriate and supportive manner.
• Provide clerical and administrative support to teaching staff as needed.
• Complete at least 16 hours of annual training in approved early childhood topics, maintaining DHS Registry compliance.
• Submit documentation of training completion to HR.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• One to three months of experience working with young children preferred.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Must meet DHS licensing aide‑level qualifications.
• Current TB clearance.
• CPR and First Aid Certification (infant/child) required after hire.
• Physician’s clearance required.
• Must pass background check and drug screening.

Skills and Competencies

• Passion for early childhood development and education.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Dependable, flexible, and collaborative team member.
• Cultural sensitivity and commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Ability to multitask and adapt to a dynamic classroom setting.

Physical & Work Environment

This position requires frequent bending, kneeling, and working at children’s eye level, along with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and 70 pounds occasionally. Work may involve exposure to outdoor environments and moderate noise levels. Use of safe cleaning products may be required.

Benefits

Working at the YWCA of Hawai'i Island means becoming part of a supportive, mission‑driven team that believes in equity, community, and empowerment. We offer a family‑friendly workplace, opportunities for growth and professional development, and a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Hawai'i Island’s keiki and families.

Equal Opportunity Employer

If you are ready to make a difference and bring your expertise to our team, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now to join an organization that values diversity, collaboration, and community impact.

Let’s work together to create a more equitable and inclusive world. Apply today.