The Preschool Readiness Instructor implements project-based curriculum and designs lesson plans to provide a quality experience for children. They are responsible for supervising children, maintaining studio safety, and communicating effectively with parents and leadership.
Requirements summary
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years of age. Prior experience working with children in a group setting is required, and CPR/AED certification is preferred.
To proceed with your application for this position, please complete the Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment linked below. Ensure you finish the assessment for your application to be reviewed.
Under the direction of the Enrichment & Family Director, the Preschool Readiness Instructor provides basic instruction and implements program curriculum in the area of their expertise. In consultation with the Enrichment & Family Director, helps develop ideas for project-based curriculum. The individual provides quality experience to children and parents that focus on the YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.
Our culture
At the YMCA of Montclair, we strive to be the Employer of Choice, provide World-Class Service, and be the Charity of Choice. Our goal is to be a place where employees are empowered and excited to come to work. All staff ensure that members experience customer centric, individual attention each and every day. We strive to be the preferred partner collaborating with others, identifying and meeting our community needs.
Essential functions
Uphold the YMCA of Montclair commitment to caring for individuals and families, with a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Implements curriculum within the established guidelines set by the Enrichment & Family Director.
Designs and implements lesson plans.
Supervises children, studios, and all activities.
Engages with each student and maintains effective control of class.
Makes ongoing observations of each child and can report to parents and the Enrichment & Family Director
Reports back to the Enrichment & Family Director in a timely manner regarding any issues.
Maintains studios, supplies, and equipment; includes letting director know about supplies in a timely manner.
Attends and participates in program activities, staff meetings, and staff training.
Volunteers for events throughout the year: Fall Family Festival, Healthy Kids Day, Strong Kids Campaign.
Able to work within set guidelines for class preparation time.
Maintains accurate attendance for YMCA records.
Benefits
Paid time off
Employee discounts
Employee referral bonus
YMCA Membership
25% Discount on YMCA programs
Exhibits personal and professional behavior in a manner consistent with the best interest of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association.
Demonstrates and models the YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
Performs such other job-related duties as may be periodically assigned by the SOPA Director
Cooperates, work effectively and congenially with all YMCA staff members, volunteers, and members of the Association.
Promote a safe, inclusive and engaging environment for children participating
Ensuring all children are checked in by staff members upon arrival following department SOP’s and their records maintained on file for reference.
Engage and lead age-appropriate activities for assigned group of children.
Assist the children in providing for their physical needs.
Adhere to policies related to boundaries with members, volunteers, staff, and participants.
Attend required Abuse Risk Management training and adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising members and participants.
Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations and follow mandated abuse reporting procedures.
Use initiative to play, read and interact with infants and children.
Following department SOP’s, sanitize toys at least once a day within accordance of DOH guidelines.
Communicate with leadership on duty as needed
Supervise the overall play area, ensuring the safety of the children.
Familiarity with and ability to implement emergency procedures.
Clear and friendly communication with parents, explaining protocols, and how they will be communicated with if needed.
Conduct regular check of first aid supplies and restock as needed.
Maintain a safe work environment, free of clutter, debris and hazardous conditions.
Report all accidents and incidents involving participants or staff to Leadership on duty and Enrichment & Family Director
Perform all other duties as assigned.
Leadership competencies
Values
Inclusion
Relationships
Quality Results
Communication
Communication & Inclusion
Emotional Maturity
Qualifications
Expertise in a specified subject area
HS/GED required.
Must be 18 years of age.
Prior working with children, preferably in a group setting.
CPR/AED preferred must be completed within the first 90 days of employment.
Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills.
Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of the YMCA.
Must be able to follow directions and adhere to policies and procedures.
Work environment & physical demands
This work requires the following physical activities
climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing, and visual acuity. The work is performed primarily indoors. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
Company benefits
YMCA
Membership: Enjoy access to our YMCA facilities at no cost.
25% Discount on various YMCA Programs
Employee
Referral
Bonus: Earn rewards for referring to qualified candidates.
Employee
Discounts: Access exclusive discounts on various products and services.
Paid
Time
Off (PTO): Eligibility after 90 days of employment.
Hourly pay rate
$18.00-$23.00
Work schedule
Monday to
Friday, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Market context
New Jersey English teacher demand remains steady
Classroom teacher roles in New Jersey are typically in steady demand, especially in core subjects like English. Competition can be strong because districts often look for candidates with the correct New Jersey certification, a bachelor’s degree, and classroom readiness; the posted benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability coverage. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then tailor your application to show your certification status and relevant English instruction experience.
