Preschool Assistant Teacher

BRANCH: Oak Street
LOCATION: Ridgewood, NJ
REPORTS TO: Director of Childcare + Camps
POSITION TYPE: Part-Time (Non-Exempt)
PAYRATE: $17.00-$17.00 hourly

OUR CULTURE: At the Ridgewood Y, our mission and core values come to life through our culture. Guided by our four pillars—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—we live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. As a nonprofit charitable organization, we have been committed to serving youth, adults, and families across Northern New Jersey and the Camp Bernie area since 1902, as part of the worldwide YMCA movement. Through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, we create meaningful connections that build spirit, mind, and body for all. Our team is dependable, hardworking, and always ready to roll up our sleeves to get the job done. We believe in the power of diversity, collaboration, and showing up for one another—because together, we are stronger. If you’re looking to make a difference and be part of a mission-driven team, Ridgewood Y is the place for you! The Ridgewood YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. We believe our strength lies in our diversity and are committed to being an inclusive organization. We welcome applicants from any and all walks of life.

BENEFITS:

  • Complimentary individual membership to the Ridgewood YMCA, or discounted family membership. Membership includes access to pools, fitness centers, and group fitness classes.
  • 25% discount on programming and events
  • Retirement savings & 403(b) Smart Account after eligibility requirements are met

POSITION SUMMARY: The Ridgewood YMCA is seeking a part-time Assistant Teacher for our Preschool Program. The Assistant Teacher works collaboratively with the Head Teacher to implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports and encourages the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of preschool students. The Assistant Teacher will work within the framework of the Ridgewood YMCA Preschool Program and adhere to all applicable policies, procedures, and program standards.

SCHEDULE: The Ridgewood YMCA Preschool Program operates Monday through Friday, September through June, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The Assistant Teacher must have flexibility to start as early as 7:00 AM or work as late as 6:00 PM, based on program needs and availability. This position may be shared between two part-time employees, with assigned days and hours remaining consistent and reliable. When Preschool is not in session, the Assistant Teacher will have additional responsibilities and must be available to work Vacation Camp during most school holidays.

JOB FUNCTION:

  • Ensure the health, safety and well-being of children in the program, by providing close supervision of all activities.
  • Implement lessons and activities; including but not limited to reading, writing development, social and emotional learning, music, STEM, art, math, science, social studies, sports, swim etc.
  • Effectively communicate with parents, verbally and in written form, throughout the school year.
  • Create a safe, nurturing environment where children can play and learn
  • Work as a supportive team member within the Ridgewood YMCA; and positively support the preschool programming.
  • Maintain a clean and safe classroom environment.
  • Participate in school specials, such as yoga, swim, physical education, music & Spanish classes. Swim with students once a week in pool.
  • Ensure that all Ridgewood YMCA, NJ Department of Education, and NJ Department of Health guidelines are followed.
  • Actively participate in designated meetings and requested professional development training.
  • Communicate professionally and appropriately with fellow staff, participants, families and members.
  • Other activities and duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School diploma or equivalent required.
  • Ability to fulfill all state required background checks & requirements.
  • Prior experience working with children or in a related field.
  • Work well with children of various ages and abilities.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills required.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and willingness to maintain a flexible schedule.
  • Certification in First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens and CPR within 60 days of employment.
  • Child abuse prevention training must be completed on an annual basis.
Apply Here