About the position
Imagine going to work knowing every day is an opportunity to positively impact the lives of children, families, and the community. Working at the Y, you’ll discover more than a job—you’ll enjoy the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you. The Learning Lane at The Berkeley Heights YMCA, a branch of the Summit Area YMCA, is seeking a passionate and dedicated Lead Preschool Teacher to join our team at The Learning Lane! The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about early childhood education and have a genuine love for working with young children. As a lead Preschool Teacher, you will be responsible for ensuring our children’s daily physical, social, mental development and well-being while in our care. Teachers supervise children as they learn and play, provide comfort and reassurance, plan stimulating activities, and keep children clean and safe. The position requires a professional commitment to the philosophy of the YMCA’s programs and to meeting the needs of its children and families.
Responsibilities
- Ensure children's daily physical, social, and mental development and well-being.
- Supervise children as they learn and play.
- Provide comfort and reassurance to children.
- Plan stimulating activities for children.
- Keep children clean and safe.
Requirements
- A minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience working with children in a classroom group setting.
- Strong leadership, communication, planning, and organization skills.
- Willingness to grow professionally through learning and participating in trainings.
- Good written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
- Availability to work year round supporting the school and summer season.
Nice-to-haves
- Love working with young children and have prior classroom experience.
- Embody the meaning of patience is a virtue.
- Be creative and encouraging of others.
- Communicate effectively and can make anyone laugh.
- Be a people person and can connect with those of diverse social and economic backgrounds.
Benefits
- Competitive salary starting at $18.00/hour based on experience.
- Subsidized medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance.
- Paid time off for vacation, wellness, or holidays.
- Free YMCA family membership.
- Discounts on Y programs and services including childcare.
- Continued professional training and development courses.
- 12% contribution to your retirement plan upon eligibility.
