Child Care Program Support Assistant Teacher

Description The Penobscot Bay YMCA is seeking a flexible, energetic, and caring Child Care Program Support Assistant Teacher to join our growing childcare team.

Position Summary

This full-time position plays a vital role in supporting our childcare programs by providing classroom coverage, additional staffing support, and continuity of care across our childcare locations in Rockport, Rockland, and the Lily Pond Infant Center. No two days are exactly the same, making this a great opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, teamwork, and building relationships with children of different ages. As a Child Care Program Support Teacher, you will work alongside experienced educators to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Our culture

• Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.
• We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become.
• We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality.
• We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.
• We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential.
• We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Essential functions

Supervises the children, classroom, and all program activities. Facilitates age-appropriate educational lessons on a daily basis under the direction of the Child Care Teacher. Follows all procedures and standards as established by law or the YMCA; makes ADA accommodations where appropriate; maintains the program site, equipment, and required program records. Is aware of and adheres to all YMCA policies, DHHS licensing regulations, and NAEYC Accreditation Standards. Creates a positive rapport and shared interest with all youth. Provides appropriate guidance to children in need of redirection and relates well to children of all abilities. Assists in ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child. Participates in basic housekeeping duties during classroom time. Attends and participates in program activities, staff meetings, and staff training. Floats between classrooms and sites as needed to provide coverage for planned staff time off, sick call-outs, and additional program support. Supports all branches of childcare programming, including Rockport, Rockland, and the Lily Pond Infant Center, as assigned. Performs other duties as assigned.

Work environment & physical demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Lifting up to 40 pounds multiple times each day. Frequent twisting, bending, and kneeling. Exposure to the outdoor environment during all seasons With reasonable accommodations be able to see and hear well enough to respond to classroom needs. Control unsafe behavior if necessary. Ability to lead and participate in program activities.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave (MPFML)
• YMCA Retirement Fund (401(a)) and 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 12 Paid Holidays Annually
• Free Family YMCA Membership
• 20% Discount on YMCA Programs
• 50% Child Care Discount for Eligible Child Care Staff
• Professional Development and Training Opportunities
• This position currently receives a $275+ monthly stipend from the State of Maine Early Childhood Educator Workforce Salary Supplement Program, in addition to base pay, subject to program eligibility and funding availability.

Requirements

Qualifications

At least 18 years of age High School Diploma or GED Ability to provide safe and compassionate services, and a history of honest and lawful conduct. CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications required. Child Abuse Prevention training required within 30 days of hire. Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred. Work towards a CDA or Infant/Toddler Credential Ability to implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities. Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds. Commitment to inclusion and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).