Preschool Associate Teacher- Gateway Child Development Center

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. As a global movement and the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job—we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community.

At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation’s most pressing social issues.

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships.

Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals.

The Associate Preschool Teacher supports Teachers and Lead Teachers in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children in the YMCA Preschool program. This role involves assisting with lesson plans, supervising children, and maintaining an organized classroom. Additionally, the Associate Preschool Teacher will provide support across classrooms as needed to ensure adequate coverage and smooth operations. The position fosters children’s growth and development while building positive relationships with families and adhering to Community Care Licensing regulations and YMCA policies.

Classroom Support & Curriculum Implementation

• Assist Teachers and Lead Teachers with preparing and implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities for children ages 0–6.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to implement curriculum, daily routines, and classroom management strategies.
• Provide support across multiple classrooms by “floating” to assist where needed.

Child Supervision & Safety

• Supervise and engage with children to ensure their safety and well-being at all times.
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom and play areas.
• Respond promptly to incidents and assist with completing necessary documentation.

Family & Team Communication

• Communicate effectively with colleagues and families about children’s development, behavior, and program updates.

Professional Development & Collaboration

• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that promotes respect and learning for all children.

• 18+ years or older.
• Hold or be eligible for a Child Development Associate Teacher Permit (12 ECE core units and 16 general education units).
• Availability to work Monday–Friday during program hours for year-round preschool operations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Completed health screening, immunizations, and TB test clearance.

• AA in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Training in NAEYC standards, PITC, Anti-Bias Curriculum, Emergent Curriculum, or Reggio Emilia practices.
• Bilingual in Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, or other languages is a plus.

The Associate Preschool Teacher will work in a classroom setting, engaging in physical activities such as standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 40 lbs. This role requires adaptability to float between classrooms as needed, along with effective communication in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

• Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check.
• All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA of…