Job Description

The YMCA of Columbia-Willamette is seeking Teachers to support our licensed school-age childcare programs. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working directly with children, supporting a positive team environment, and helping create a safe, engaging space where youth can grow before and after school.

As a Teacher, you play an important role in supporting youth development, maintaining a welcoming program environment, and helping families feel confident in their YMCA childcare experience.

Position Summary

The Teacher supports the implementation of YMCA school-age licensed childcare programs by supervising youth, assisting with daily activities, and following childcare licensing and YMCA safety standards. Working under the direction of the Lead Teacher, the Teacher helps maintain a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for children.

The Teacher also serves as the alternate on-site program leader during program hours when the Lead Teacher is unavailable and supports a positive program experience that encourages enrollment retention and family engagement

Benefits:

• Sick Pay: 1.5 hours for every 40 hours worked
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Childcare and Program Discounts
• Free Household Membership to a YMCA Fitness Facility
• Retirement Plan: 9% contribution after two years worked (must meet certain criteria).
• Flexible Scheduling
• Career Path: Promotion to management positions from within the organization

Schedule & Work Structure

• Schedule: Part-time, requires availability between 2:00-6:00 PM Monday-Friday
• Work Environment: On-site at a licensed school-age childcare program
• Travel: Ability to travel between nearby program locations as needed

Core Responsibilities

Youth Supervision & Program Implementation

• Supervise youth at all times to ensure safety and well-being
• Support daily activities and curriculum under the direction of the Lead Teacher
• Encourage participation, positive peer interaction, and respectful behavior
• Assist with preparing materials and setting up activity spaces
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and age-appropriate environment

Licensing Compliance, Safety & Emergency Response

• Follow daily childcare licensing and YMCA safety requirements
• Maintain accurate attendance and assist with required documentation
• Support supervision practices and staff-to-child ratio requirements
• Communicate safety concerns, injuries, or incidents to the Lead Teacher
• Support emergency procedures and safety drills
• Serve as the alternate on-site program leader during emergencies when the Lead Teacher is unavailable

Staff Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, Teachers, and Aides
• Assist with on-site supervision of Aides or volunteers as directed
• Communicate operational or youth behavior concerns promptly
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and program improvement efforts

Family Communication & School Coordination

• Greet families and youth during arrival and departure times
• Share routine updates about youth participation and daily activities
• Welcome new families and support a positive enrollment experience
• Support positive relationships with school staff and follow facility procedures
• Escalate family or school-related concerns to the Lead Teacher as needed

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18 years
• Meet all state licensing qualifications for a Program Leader in a licensed childcare program including one of the following:
• Associate’s degree in early childhood education, education, human services, or related field
• 240 hours of qualifying experience with school age children
• Step 6 or above on the Oregon Registry
• 60 hours of working in the program AND 20 hours of specific training
• Evidence of completion of equivalent training
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to actively supervise youth in a dynamic program environment
• Current Central Background Registry enrollment, Pediatric and Adult First Aid & CPR Certification, and Food Handler’s card or ability to obtain within the required timeframe
• Successful completion of YMCA background check and youth protection requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in school-based childcare
• Experience implementing enrichment activities or youth development curriculum
• Experience supporting youth behavior guidance
• Bilingual or multilingual communication skills