UPK Lead Teacher-PreK

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges; Livingston (NJ); On-site; USD 64,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

An established nonprofit organization is seeking a passionate UPK Lead Teacher to nurture children's growth and development. In this vital role, you will design and implement engaging classroom activities, mentor staff, and foster strong relationships with families. You'll contribute to a mission-driven environment focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a commitment to professional growth and community involvement, this position offers a fulfilling opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of children and families. Join a team dedicated to excellence and innovation in education!

Benefits

Retirement Plans

Professional Development

PTO

YMCA Facility Access

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education and NJ Teacher Certification required.
• At least two years of preschool teaching experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement classroom activities and curriculum.
• Supervise and train Associate Teachers and Teacher Assistants.
• Conduct ongoing evaluations of each child.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Curriculum Implementation

Youth Development Knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Education

NJ P-3 or N-8 Teacher Certification

Tools

CPR Certification

First Aid Certification

AED Certification

Job description

Join to apply for the UPK Lead Teacher-PreK role at Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges

4 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges provided pay range

This range is provided by Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$64,000.00/yr - $68,000.00/yr

We are an all-inclusive organization united by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering social responsibility. As a growing, mission-focused, and future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges offers an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven candidate to join our team.

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The UPK Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, developing, and implementing classroom activities, maintaining the classroom's physical appearance to meet agency standards, supervising and training Associate Teachers and/or Teacher Assistants, and acting as a liaison between the Childcare Director and families.

Sign-on Bonus may apply.

Essential Functions

1. Implement and design curriculum within established guidelines, including daily lesson/activity plans.
2. Manage and supervise children, classroom, teacher assistants, and all activities.
3. Conduct ongoing observations and evaluations of each child.
4. Conduct parent conferences, maintain positive relationships, and engage parents as volunteers.
5. Share and discuss lesson plans with the team and supervise performance related to curriculum and philosophy.
6. Mentor staff to support professional growth.
7. Maintain records in compliance with regulations.
8. Ensure a healthy and safe classroom environment.
9. Participate in community and YMCA events.
10. Support staff and parents in campaign efforts.
11. Model positive discipline techniques.
12. Attend trainings and staff meetings.
13. Collaborate with the Childcare Director on goals.
14. Support branch and association-wide initiatives.
15. Participate in Summer Camp programs.
16. Demonstrate YMCA’s core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
17. Exhibit professional behavior aligned with the organization’s interests.
18. Perform other duties as assigned.

YMCA Competencies (Team Leader)

Mission Advancement: Teach YMCA values, ensure high service levels, support volunteer development, and support fundraising.

Collaboration: Promote inclusion, build relationships, communicate effectively, and provide coaching and feedback.

Operational Effectiveness: Support decision-making, develop plans, manage budgets, and ensure quality results.

Personal Growth: Share insights, facilitate change, address issues professionally, and stay current in skills and knowledge.

Minimum Requirements/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education
• NJ P-3 or N-8 Teacher Certification
• At least two years of teaching experience with preschool age
• Strong knowledge of youth development principles
• Knowledge of early childhood development, curriculum, and healthy living
• Experience in supervision, curriculum implementation, and parental communication
• Knowledge of NJ regulations (e.g., NJ Grow)
• Ability to plan and implement age-appropriate activities
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Ability to relate to children and develop positive relationships
• Teamwork and initiative skills
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications
• Maintain certifications, complete background checks, and provide proof of a Mantoux test within two weeks of hire

Internal Candidates: Current employees should apply via the Careers section of the Dayforce Employee Account.

We offer competitive compensation and benefits, including retirement plans, PTO, professional development, and YMCA facility access.

We are an EEO/AA employer. Employment is subject to background checks.

Apply Now