Preschool Teacher Assistant

YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading human services organization as a preschool teacher assistant, providing a safe and caring learning environment for children. Emphasize high-quality service and collaboration while supporting youth development and community engagement.

Benefits

12% retirement contribution

YMCA Adult Membership

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience in a related supervised setting.
• CPR/First Aid/AED/O2 certification required within 30 days.

Responsibilities

• Assist with supervision, behavior management, and safety of preschool children.
• Help plan and prepare daily activities and programs.
• Communicate with parents about children’s needs and daily activities.

Skills

Communication

Behavior Management

Teamwork

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

Mathews Family YMCA, Hudgins, Virginia, United States of America

Job Description

Posted Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 4:00 AM | Expires Monday, June 30, 2025 at 3:59 AM

Join one of the most respected human services organizations in the world, where your work positively influences lives, and you build a better future for yourself and your community.

General Function:

Under supervision and in alignment with YMCA policies and Virginia Department of Social Services standards, the preschool teacher assistant provides a safe, caring learning environment for preschool children. The role emphasizes delivering high-quality service to members and guests, working collaboratively to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests, and staff.

Qualifications:

1. Minimum age of 16 years.
2. High School diploma or equivalent required.
3. At least one year of experience in a related supervised setting.
4. CPR/First Aid/AED/O2 certification required within 30 days.
5. Proof of a negative TB test within the last 2 years.
6. Medication Administration Training (MAT) certification preferred.
7. Complete and maintain required trainings such as NEO, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually.
8. Satisfactory criminal background, Virginia State Police, and Child Protective Services checks.

Essential Functions:

1. Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals.
2. Model caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to promote a professional environment.
3. Contribute to programs that foster youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
4. Assist with supervision, behavior management, and safety of preschool children.
5. Supervise children within sight and sound, knowing their whereabouts at all times.
6. Help plan and prepare daily activities and programs.
7. Assist in setting up and cleaning up supplies and materials.
8. Participate actively in group activities, including swimming, team-building, arts, and crafts.
9. Follow Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers and departmental standards.
10. Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
11. Follow mandated abuse reporting procedures.
12. Communicate with parents about children’s needs and daily activities.
13. Wear appropriate staff attire and name tags.
14. Participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
15. Act as a leader during emergencies, reporting incidents per the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
16. Ensure a safe environment for all members, guests, and participants, following the branch Emergency Operations Plan.
17. Perform other duties as necessary to ensure an excellent member experience.

Core Values: Engaging Community, Communication & Influence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Functional Expertise

Skills and Ability Requirements:

1. Observe children’s behavior, enforce safety regulations, and apply behavior-management techniques.
2. Communicate effectively with children of various ages and skill levels, providing necessary instruction.
3. Plan, lead, and participate in childcare activities.
4. Identify environmental hazards through visual and auditory cues.
5. Respond appropriately to emergencies, including administering first aid.
6. Maintain physical strength and endurance to supervise children constantly.
7. Occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Effect on End Result:

1. Achieve membership growth and retention goals.
2. Maintain high member satisfaction as measured by Net Promoters.
3. Portray a positive image of the YMCA to all stakeholders.
4. Create a pleasant and safe working environment.
5. Strengthen relationships through intentional interactions.
6. Ensure the facility is safe, clean, and enjoyable, as evidenced by audits.
7. Meet quality standards and maintain licensure.

Benefits include a 12% retirement contribution upon meeting the National YMCA Retirement Fund requirements and YMCA Adult Membership.