Child Care

Job Description

Infant and toddler Lead Teacher Extraordinaire

Where Little Moments Become Big Milestones

About Us at YWCA NENY

Since its beginning in 1888, YWCA NENY has been a constant innovator in providing program and services to meet the changing needs of the community. It is the mission of YWCA NENY to eliminate racism, and empower women while promoting peace, justice, dignity, and freedom for all. Our clubhouse is a melting pot of awesome people from all over the galaxy, and we're on the lookout for someone with skills and passion to join our crew.

Summary

Do you find joy in finger painting masterpieces, celebrating first words, and cheering on big developmental wins? As a Lead Teacher at YWCA NENY’s Early Learning Center (ELC), you’ll help shape the early years for children. This role is ideal for a passionate, playful leader who loves learning through discovery, guiding a team, and creating a classroom where curiosity, kindness, and confidence grow every day.

FLSA Category: Non-exempt

Compensation: $18 - $21 per hour.

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

• Generous Paid Time Off: Plenty of PTO plus paid public holidays.

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance: Coverage that supports your well-being.

• Pension Plan: Employer contributions included.

• Professional Development: Opportunities to grow and learn.

• Childcare Discounts: 43–50% off ELC programs for you.

What Your Days Will Look Like

• Create the Magic: Design engaging weekly lesson plans filled with creativity, exploration, and age-appropriate learning.

• Lead the Way: Inspire, coach, and mentor classroom staff to build a joyful, supportive, and teamwork-driven environment.

• Celebrate Progress: Observe, assess, and document children’s milestones, big and small, to support each child’s unique growth.

• Partner with Families: Host parent conferences twice a year to share smiles, stories, and developmental achievements.

• Team Up: Collaborate with Directors to keep classrooms running smoothly and children thriving safely.

• Keep Kids Safe: Model and follow child safety practices so every child feels secure, supported, and cared for.

• Stock the Fun: Manage classroom supplies so learning is always hands-on and imagination-ready.

• Support Families: Share helpful resources and guidance to strengthen family connections beyond the classroom.

• Stay Organized: Attend meetings, complete required documentation, and keep things running behind the scenes.

• Jump In: Take on extra tasks that help make the classroom and center an even better place to learn and grow.

What You Bring to the Classroom

• Education: CDA, Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, or a BS/BA in Early Childhood or Elementary Education (or related field).

• Experience: At least three years of experience working with children in an educational or early learning setting.

• Heart for Teaching: A genuine love for early childhood education and nurturing young learners.

Job and Physical Requirements

• Comfort sitting on the floor, singing songs, reading stories, and joining play.

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds (toddlers, supplies, and the occasional stack of books).

• Energy to supervise indoor and outdoor play, navigate stairs, and enjoy playground time.

• Flexibility in a lively, active, sometimes noisy environment filled with learning and laughter.

• Physical stamina to keep up with curious, energetic young learners throughout the day.

• All role required checks.

Work Hours: Flexible full-time schedules.

Join Our League of Extraordinary Educators: We're an equal-opportunity agency committed to diversity and inclusivity. We celebrate all candidates regardless of origin story because we believe that diversity is our superpower.

Full-time