Assistant Preschool Teacher

At the Whatcom Family YMCA, we are passionate about nurturing young minds and creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where every child can grow, learn, and thrive. We are currently seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Early Learning Teacher to join our team of early childhood educators. Our Heart House location (near civic complex) is looking for a fulltime preschool teacher for our multi-age classroom of 2.5-5 year olds. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement lesson plans aligned with YMCA curriculum and early childhood standards.
• Foster a warm, inclusive, and responsive environment for toddlers.
• Supervise children to ensure safety and well-being at all times.
• Communicate regularly with families about their child’s development and experiences.
• Collaborate with co-teachers and center leadership to support classroom goals.
• Maintain cleanliness, order, and compliance with licensing and health standards.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications
• Health, dental, and vision benefits (for eligible positions)
• YMCA membership and program discounts
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Supportive and inclusive team environment
• Opportunities for growth within the YMCA network

Join Us!

Be a part of a mission-driven organization that’s been building healthy families and strong communities for over 100 years.

The YMCA is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Must be 18 years of age or older and a high school graduate (or equivalent).
2. Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred.
3. Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
4. Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
5. Current CPR (Adult, Infant & Child) and First Aid, AED certifications.
6. Complete Praesidium Child Abuse prevention training within 15 days of hire.
7. 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)
8. 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

9. Willingness to obtain the ECE initial certificate or equivalent (approximately 12 credits).

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• The employee needs sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions and to safely supervise program activities.
• The employee frequently is required to sit and reach, and must be able to move around the work environment.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.