YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids·Wyoming, Michigan
The Early Learning Assistant Teacher assists in developing and implementing daily lesson plans and classroom activities. They are responsible for actively engaging with children, maintaining supervision, and communicating effectively with parents and the teaching team.
Description Our SpartanNash YMCA Child Development Center is looking for a full-time and part-time Assistant Teachers.
The Early Learning Assistant Teacher will assist in the planning, developing, and implementing of classroom activities for programs. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program.
Assists Site Coordinator/Supervisor in developing and leading daily lesson plans Actively engages with children in the classroom Assists with daily parent communication Prepares materials for daily activity Maintains records of attendance, arrival, and departure times Maintains supervision of children Assists Site Supervisor with parent-teacher conferences as needed Efficiently communicates with classroom teaching team Performs any other functions deemed to be necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association
COMPENSATION $15.21 - $19.01 ; Non-Exempt, Full-Time (40 hours/week), Part-Time (up to 25 hours/week) FULL-TIME BENEFITS Free YMCA Family Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities & program discounts for you and your family!
50% Childcare Discount – Discount is off the regular rate for each child enrolled in a YMCA childcare program, excluding the infant room.
Comprehensive Medical Coverage – Up to 93% employer paid plan options through Blue Care Network.
Dental and Vision Insurance – low-cost coverage options.
Health Savings Account (HSA) – Receive up to $1,040 in employer contributions each year to help cover qualified medical expenses.
Generous Paid Time Off – Beginning with 3 weeks of PTO per year, plus 9 paid holidays.
Paid Parental Leave - Dedicated time off to support you during the arrival or adoption of a child.
Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
Paid Disability Leave – short & long term disability coverage.
Life Insurance – employer paid life insurance, plus voluntary coverage for the entire family.
Optional Insurance – Customize your coverage with options like accident, hospital, pet, and legal insurance, plus more to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Pay on Demand – Access your earned wages before payday.
Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
Loan Forgiveness - Eligible employees can also take advantage of Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.
PART-TIME BENEFITS Free YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.
Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.
Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.
Associate's degree or CDA PREFERRED; three to six months childcare related experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience preferred. Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. Ability and desire to work with and care for infants, toddler, and preschool children.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Blood Borne Pathogen training CPR Certification required within the first 60 days First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT) Fingerprinting DHS clearance WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
0 - 5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.
Market context
Michigan early learning programs continue to need assistant teachers, especially in center-based settings that rely on staff with childcare experience and recognized credentials like an associate’s degree or CDA. This role is competitive because employers often want candidates who can complete CPR, First Aid, and background clearances quickly while supporting daily classroom routines. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your credential status and clearance readiness before applying.