Ridgewood YMCA

Assistant Preschool Teacher Job Description

JOB TITLE: Assistant Teacher
LOCATION: Ridgewood, NJ
REPORTS TO: Senior Director of Youth Programming
DURATION: Part Time (Non-Exempt)
SALARY: $16.50-$18.00

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, the 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 membership to the Ridgewood Y for you which includes access to pools, fitness centers, and group fitness classes
  • 25% discount on programming and events
  • Flexible work schedule
  • 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 will work with the Head Teacher to implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports and encourages the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of our preschool students. They will work within the framework of the Ridgewood YMCA’s Preschool Program to carry out its functions, policies, and procedures—including but not limited to prepping lessons and activities, providing one-on-one support to students, assisting with bathroom needs and changing, and supervising the group overall. The Assistant Teacher will also assume the responsibilities of the Head Teacher when they are absent.

The Ridgewood YMCA Preschool Program operates Monday through Friday, September through June, from 9:00am–3:00pm. Applicants should be flexible with start and end times ranging from 7:00am to 6:00pm, depending on need and availability. This role may be shared between two part-time staff members, with consistent and reliable scheduling. Additional program responsibilities will be required when preschool is not in session, and availability to work Vacation Camps during most holidays is expected.

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 the pool.

  • Ensure that all Ridgewood YMCA, NJ Department of Education, and NJ Department of Health guidelines are followed.

  • Actively participate in designated meetings and 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 are 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