YMCA of Greater Erie·Erie, Pennsylvania
The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing engaging daily lesson plans while maintaining a safe, organized, and compliant classroom environment. They also act as a liaison with parents and support the Child Care Program Director in fostering a positive atmosphere for children.
The YMCA of Greater Erie is hiring Lead Teachers for our childcare program. If you're creative, energetic, and passionate about working with children, and if you want weekends free, this role is for you! Pay: $12.61 - $15.76 per hour Rate of pay is based on experience and educational credentials. APPLY and start the conversation today!
LOCATIONS CURRENTLY HIRING YMCA Early Learning Center (Poplar) 3507 Poplar St., Erie, PA Downtown YMCA 31 W 10th St., Erie, PA Glenwood Childcare 3727 Cherry St., Erie, PA Eastside Childcare 2101 Nagle Rd., Harborcreek, PA Waterford YMCA at First Presbyterian Church in Waterford Wattsburg Elementary YMCA 10780 Wattsburg Rd., Wattsburg, PA Summit YMCA at Summit United Methodist Church in Erie (Summit Township) YMCA Early Learning University 301 Darrow Rd., Edinboro, PA McKean Elementary YMCA 5120 W Rd., McKean, PA County YMCA 12285 YMCA Dr., Edinboro, PA Northwestern Elementary YMCA. 10450 John Williams Ave., Albion, PA Fairview YMCA at Fairview United Methodist Church in Fairview Elk Valley Elementary YMCA. 2556 Maple Ave., Lake City, PA Camp Sherwin YMCA 8600 West Lake Rd., Lake City, PA For certain positions, benefits Include: Health, dental & vision insurance Disability and life insurance Funded retirement plan where company matches 8% of eligible employee's salary after two years of qualifying employment! Paid holidays and PTO Free YMCA membership for employee and family Discounted childcare and program fees Flexible work
25-37 hours per week, Monday - Friday If you're eager to apply and grow your child development skills, apply today! Lead Teacher
Role Overview: As a Lead Teacher at our childcare center, you'll support the Child Care Program Director in creating a positive, enriching environment for children. Your role involves supervising, guiding, and serving as a role model. You'll plan and implement engaging curriculum with the help of an Assistant Teacher, ensuring compliance with regulations and YMCA standards. Key Responsibilities: Curriculum Development: Plan and execute daily lesson plans and activities based on child development principles. Classroom Management: Maintain a clean, organized classroom and keep accurate records. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local regulations. Parent Communication: Act as a liaison with parents, assisting with enrollment and ongoing communication.
Attend family events and program activities with enthusiasm.
Age: At least 18 years old.
Associate Degree in a related field with 30 ECE credits and 2500 hours of experience; or Any unrelated Associate/Bachelor's Degree with 30 ECE credits and 3750 hours of experience; or Bachelor's Degree in a related field with 30 ECE credits and 1250 hours of experience; or Master's Degree in a related field with 30 ECE credits.
Pass Pennsylvania state mandated Title 33, Title 34 and FBI background checks, physical exam, and have a negative TB test.
Complete a minimum of 6 hours of training annually.
Personal
Qualities: Passion for working with children, patience, and a love for interactive activities like reading and singing. If you enjoy engaging with children and have a solid understanding of child development, we'd love to hear from you! ABOUT YMCA OF GREATER ERIE We are a nonprofit dedicated to promoting healthy living, social responsibility, and youth development to strengthen our community. With over 21 million members in 2,600 Y associations nationwide, we make a local impact through four membership branches, an outdoor recreation center, nine education program centers, and various community outreach programs, serving over 35,000 people. We value our employees, offering a supportive work environment with a strong work-life balance and competitive wages and benefits. At the YMCA, we believe in inclusivity and provide opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. READY TO JOIN OUR CHILDCARE TEAM? If you feel that you would be right for this part-time childcare position, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!
Candidates must hold at least an Associate Degree in a related field with specific ECE credits and relevant work experience. Applicants are also required to pass state-mandated background checks, including Title 33, Title 34, and FBI clearances.
Market context
In Pennsylvania, lead teacher roles in early childhood settings are commonly driven by steady demand for qualified staff who can meet licensing and classroom supervision requirements. This role is competitive because it requires both a related degree with specific ECE credits and documented experience hours, plus state background checks, a physical exam, and a negative TB test. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your transcript, experience records, and clearances before applying.