Infant​/Toddler, Preschool Teacher 1 & Lead Teacher

Join to apply for the Infant/Toddler, Preschool Teacher 1 & Lead Teacher role at YMCA of Greater Boston

Location: Wang YMCA

Compensation: $19.00 - $31.00 / hour

Department: Child Development:
Early Education

A Lead Teacher represents the YMCA personally, professionally, and in a manner in accordance with the mission and goals of the YMCA. Under the supervision of the Site Director, the Lead Teacher plans and implements classroom curriculum, updates children's records, communicates information to families, and maintains a safe, healthy, warm, engaging, and attractive environment. Age‑appropriate activities provide for growth in skills, self‑awareness, friendships, and character development.

By conducting themselves in a caring, responsible, honest, and respectful manner, Lead Teachers are role models for children and adults. They ensure focus on programming that promotes youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, with the ultimate goal to assist children in reaching their fullest potential. Lead Teachers implement activities for our youngest learners that align with MA guidelines and provide positive research‑based outcomes for children served.

Nurturing the socio‑emotional health of the children in our care is considered a primary foundation for success, including cognitive and physical growth, as well as school readiness.

• Keeps safety of children as a first priority; emphasizes personal safety and emotional well‑being with the children, families, and other staff at all times.
• Uses positive and constructive methods of behavior guidance and ensures that colleagues are using similar strategies.
• Supervises children to ensure safety, appropriate behavior, and smooth transitions.
• Works with the Director & other Teachers regarding daily duties and needs of the program; ensures classroom and materials are properly maintained and sustains an engaging atmosphere throughout the day.
• Is actively engaged in assessing children's progress, curriculum planning, program assessments, and communication with families.
• Works with the Director and other Teacher to introduce activities that positively engage the group while considering individualized instruction as necessary.
• Participates in a minimum of 20 hours of training per year and meets EEC/YMCA training guideline.
• Attends regular staff meetings and Association‑wide or regional events as assigned.
• Exhibits flexibility with scheduling, classroom assignments, and substituting in varied areas of the program.
• Considers exceptional attendance, promptness for shift, and reliability as core work ethic.
• Is knowledgeable in and adheres to the rules, regulations, and procedures set forth by the YMCA of Greater Boston and the Department of Early Education and Care.
• Is active in branch‑related activities and communicates regularly with other department staff.
• Participates in some manner in the Annual Campaign.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Lead Teacher qualified by the Department of Early Education and Care standards.
• First Aid and CPR certified within the first 6 months of employment.
• Excellent skills in working with families, conflict resolution, and community relations.
• Knowledge of group process with ability to make contributions to a positive team dynamic.
• Commitment to the philosophy and goals of the YMCA.
• Effective leadership skills and crisis management skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Participate in online training - Blood Borne Pathogens, Sexual Harassment, and Child Abuse Prevention - within the first 60 days of employment.

• Developing leadership skills in a caring, challenging & diverse working environment.
• Exploring a wide range of opportunities as you learn new skills and functions.
• Shaping the future of young children while making a difference each day for our communities.
• Engaging in YMCA career training programs and working alongside those who share the same passion.
• Healthy work/life balance.
• FREE YMCA Membership for you.
• Discount on Specialty Programs like Personal Training and Swimming Lessons.
• Discounted or FREE family membership.
• Robust Retirement Plan up to 10% (see eligibility requirement).
• Health, Dental, and Vision Benefit Package.
• Vacation and Sick Time (PT receive sick time).

Why work at the Y? The YMCA of Greater Boston is an incredible place to have a fulfilling career or enjoy part‑time employment — all while we are supporting and strengthening our communities, because our community is our cause. When you join us in your career here, you can look forward to a meaningful, engaging, and rewarding experience.