Overview

Description: Join our team at the new Grand Rapids Central Station Early Childhood Center, located within The Rapid Central Station, creating an environment to meet families where they live. The center prioritizes delivering accessible, affordable early care and education to children and wraparound services to whole families and the broader community at an intersection of transportation and childcare needs. Classrooms are scheduled to open in Fall 2026, with opportunities for employment beginning as early as this summer. POSITION SUMMARYThe Lead Teacher is responsible for the planning, developing, and implementation of Wobbler classroom activities. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program and may involve early morning responsibilities. Full-time, Monday - Friday availability required. Openings for infant - early preschool classrooms available. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSPlans and leads daily lesson plansOrganizes and participates in games and activitiesProvides weekly lesson plans to parentsProvides each participant's parent with information on individual activities on a daily basisPrepares materials for daily activitiesMaintains records of attendance and arrival and departure timesMaintains supervision of childrenConducts parent-teacher conferences at least annuallyMaintains the quality and quantity of supplies, equipment, and materials in the classroomDisciplines children and recommends or initiates other measures to control behaviorHandles parent concernsPerforms any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand RapidsCOMPENSATION$17.09 - $21.36 ; Full-Time; Non-Exempt (40 hours/week)BENEFITSFree 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. Requirements: QUALIFICATIONSDegree in Early Childhood Education or CDA required. Bachelor's Degree (BA) preferred; six months to one year childcare related experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. Ability and desire to work with infants, toddlers, preschool and school age children. Working knowledge of computers and experience with a variety of software applications. YMCA experience preferred.CERTIFICATIONSBlood Borne Pathogen trainingCPR Certification required within the first 60 daysFirst Aid Certification required within the first 60 daysState of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)FingerprintingWORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Reasonable accommodations may be