Preschool Associate Teacher - Mission

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.

Our Organizational Culture

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.

Position Summary

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.

Job Responsibilities

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.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

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.

Disclaimers

• 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 Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties.
• This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed.
• Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.

Salary Description

The hourly rate for this position is $29.00 - $29.50 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and alignment with salary benchmarks for similar roles. Compensation is in accordance with grant funding approval and program budget requirements.