What are the responsibilities and job description for the Preschool Teacher Assistant position at GBYMCA?
We’re Looking for a Preschool Teacher Assistant!
If you love the energy, creativity, and joy that preschoolers bring to each day—and want to be part of a team that fosters meaningful learning through play—this is the role for you! Preschool teachers at the Y don’t just teach; they help children explore their world, build confidence, and grow into kind and curious learners.
Schedule and Location: This position is full-time at 40 hours/week working Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30am-5:00pm (schedule dependent) at our Burlington location at 298 College St. Burlington, VT
About Our Center:
At the Greater Burlington YMCA, we offer a play-based, emergent curriculum driven by each child’s natural curiosity and interests. With locations in both Burlington and Winooski, our early childhood programs celebrate the unique identities of children and families, nurturing social-emotional growth through meaningful play and authentic connections. At the Y, we:
- Support Social/Emotional Growth
- Celebrate Diversity
- Foster Curiosity
- Strive to Inspire and be Inspired
Duties
What You’ll Do:
As a Preschool Assistant Teacher, you’ll work side-by-side with Lead Teachers to create and maintain a nurturing, engaging classroom environment. You’ll:
- Assist with planning and implementing meaningful, play-based activities aligned with YMCA philosophy and emergent curriculum
- Supervise and engage with children in both indoor and outdoor play
- Support teachers during swim lessons, gym time, and field trips
- Help maintain a safe and organized classroom environment
- Communicate respectfully and professionally with families and coworkers
- Provide calm and supportive rest time routines
- Attend and participate in program-wide events like art shows and family celebrations
- Maintain compliance with all state Child Care Licensing regulations and complete required annual training hours
- Embody the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
Requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications to be eligible for the starting rate of $15.00/hour. Additional compensation is determined based on experience and education aligned with the preferred qualifications.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Must be 18 years of age with a High School Diploma or GED
- Ability to pass a federal background check and state fingerprinting
- One year of experience working with children
Nice To Haves
Preferred Qualifications:
- Completion of a VT Fundamentals Course or at least 3 college credits in child development
- Certificate of completion of a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA)
- Full-time experience working with children or youth in an educational, recreational, or programmatic setting, with milestones recognized at 2, 5, 10, and 15 years.
- Completion of twelve college credits in child or human development or school age care and education.
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in any field.
- Formal training or certification experience in trauma-informed care, basic specialized care, or social work. Including completion of professional development or coursework in trauma-informed practices.
- 2 years of direct full-time experience in special education or behavioral intervention.
- Coursework or certification in special education or behavioral intervention.
- Completion of DEI-specific training, coursework, or certification, with a minimum of 40 hours or the equivalent of a college course.
Benefits
Why You’ll Love Working with Us:
- Competitive Pay – Earn $17.00–$19.00/hour based on your experience and qualifications.
- Professional Development – Enjoy 8 in-service days dedicated to training, team meetings, and curriculum planning.
- Time Off – Get 15 paid vacation days, 6 paid holidays, and 3 weeks of Paid Time Off in your first year.
- Balanced Workload – One dedicated planning day each week.
- Y Perks – Free YMCA membership and discounts on programs and camps.
- Health Coverage – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Growth Opportunities – Ongoing professional development and career advancement.
- The City is Our Playground – Our location in the heart of Burlington means children get hands-on learning experiences exploring the waterfront, beaches, woods, and Church Street.
Salary : $15 - $19
