Infant/Toddler Assistant Teacher

About the Role

As an Early Head Start Infant/Toddler Teacher Assistant, you will work cooperatively with classroom teachers to ensure prompt, responsive care for children aged 6 weeks to 3 years. Your mission is to foster a supportive and positive classroom climate that stimulates development through engagement, play, and high-quality language experiences. You will be a vital part of a team dedicated to meeting the emotional, social, physical, and educational needs of every child, adapting routines to align with individual interests and abilities.

This role is central to the YMCA's commitment to community impact. Our staff is our greatest asset, bringing the skills, knowledge, and passion necessary to create positive change. You will help children develop secure relationships while ensuring their health and safety, whether indoors or outdoors. By modeling appropriate interactions and maintaining confidentiality, you will establish professional rapport with families, colleagues, and volunteers, encouraging parent involvement and supporting the agency's goals for recruitment and retention.

Hiring Process & Application

To be considered for this position, applicants must submit official transcripts from accredited institutions verifying educational qualifications relevant to early childhood education, along with valid credentials such as an Early Childhood Education (ECE) certification, Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, or state-specific teaching licenses.

This is a union position. The starting pay for this role is $19.23 per hour. Candidates must be willing to work flexible hours, potentially including evenings and Saturdays, and must pass a DCFS background check to maintain clearance throughout employment.

Culture & Commitment

The YMCA values diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a supportive work environment where continuous learning is encouraged through workshops and training programs. We are deeply committed to child abuse prevention, requiring all staff to follow strict policies regarding safety, supervision, and reporting of hazards or suspicious behavior. We adhere to Head Start Performance Standards, Developmentally Appropriate Practices, and the Creative Curriculum to ensure the highest quality of care.

Equal Opportunity

The YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.