YMCA Buffalo Niagara·Amherst, New York
The UPK Aide assists the teacher in implementing curriculum and managing daily program operations at designated school sites. They are responsible for maintaining a clean, safe environment and fostering positive relationships with students, parents, and staff.
YMCA Buffalo Niagara is hiring for several open positions at our Universal Pre-K Program sites. When applying for this job, you will be asked to select the location (1st and 2nd choice) you are able to work at: Amherst Depew Hamburg Tonawanda Youngstown West Seneca YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion.
The YMCA operates Universal Pre-K (UPK) programs at locations in Amherst, Depew, Hamburg, Tonawanda, Youngstown, and West Seneca. The UPK Aide assists and supports the UPK Teacher in all aspects of program delivery. GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE: Aides are generally scheduled to work between the hours of 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday - Friday. Additional hours may be required.
Employees are immediately eligible to enroll and contribute to the Y Retirement Fund 403B plan and will receive a 12% employer paid Y Retirement Fund contribution after eligibility requirements are met. Health insurance is available to full-time staff on the first of the month following 60 days of employment with the Y. All employees receive a complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara family masterkey membership and program discounts. Other benefits include paid sick leave, training, leadership development opportunities, and career advancement. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Implements the curriculum and follows program standards established by the YMCA, the New York State Department of Education, and the School District. Assists and supports the UPK teacher with administrative tasks. Projects a positive image, communicates effectively and develops positive relationships with students, parents, staff and school administration. Maintains the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas. Ensures PPE compliance. Enforces safety rules and reports/treats any injuries. Attends staff meetings and trainings as required. Carries out other duties as assigned.
Meets the requirements outlined in the contract with the School District and/or the local Board of Education. Prior experience working with preschool age children is preferred. Able to build positive relationships and communicated effectively with parents, children, school administration and co-workers. Must be dependable and conscientious.
Candidates must meet the requirements set by the local Board of Education and the School District. Prior experience working with preschool-aged children is preferred, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Market context
Demand for Universal Pre-K aides in New York is often tied to district staffing needs, enrollment growth, and the availability of qualified support staff in early childhood classrooms. These roles are competitive because schools look for candidates who meet local Board of Education and district requirements, communicate well with preschool-aged children and adults, and can support classroom routines reliably. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your eligibility with the district and highlight any preschool experience in your application.