Early Learning Lead Teacher
Company: YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids
Role summary
Early Learning Lead Teacher is a role at YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids in Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States (on-site). Posted 2026-09-02. Salary: USD 17–21 per hour. Experience level: 0-2. No degree required.
- Job title
- Early Learning Lead Teacher
- Company
- YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids
- Location
- Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States
- Work arrangement
- on-site
- Category
- Software Engineering
- Salary
- USD 17–21 per hour
- Experience level
- 0-2
- Degree required
- No
- Date posted
- 2026-09-02
Here's a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in children's lives, with no degree needed! The YMCA offers competitive pay and the chance to grow your career while nurturing young minds.
Job description
Description
This position is for a Lead Teacher at the David D. Hunting YMCA. Applicants must be available Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 6:00. The schedule may consist of four 10-hour shifts or a traditional five-day workweek. Specific scheduling details can be discussed upon hire.
POSITION SUMMARY
The 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.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Plans and leads daily lesson plans
Organizes and participates in games and activities
Provides weekly lesson plans to parents
Provides each participant’s parent with information on individual activities on a daily basis
Prepares materials for daily activities
Maintains records of attendance and arrival and departure times
Maintains supervision of children
Conducts parent-teacher conferences at least annually
Maintains the quality and quantity of supplies, equipment, and materials in the classroom
Disciplines children and recommends or initiates other measures to control behavior
Handles parent concerns
Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids
COMPENSATION
$17.09 - $21.36 ; Full-Time; Non-Exempt (40 hours/week)
BENEFITS
Free 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
QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or Preschool 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.
CERTIFICATIONS
Blood Borne Pathogen training
CPR Certification required within the first 60 days
First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days
State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)
Fingerprinting
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
TRAVEL:
0 - 5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.
Apply for Early Learning Lead Teacher at YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids