Associate Teacher

Associate Teacher – Y Academy Early Education Center
Full-Time | Non-Exempt |YMCA of Greater Nashua | Merrimack Branch

POSITION SUMMARY:

Working alongside the Lead Teacher, the Associate Teacher helps deliver our philosophy of high-quality early childhood education. You’ll bring creativity, compassion, and a playful spirit to the classroom while partnering with a team of three teachers. Responsibilities include:

· Supporting curriculum development and classroom management

· Facilitating engaging, age-appropriate activities

· Creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment

· Building positive relationships with children, families, and staff

· Participating in staff meetings, trainings, and continuing education (18 hours annually)

OUR COMMUNITY:

The YMCA of Greater Nashua is a leader in the region. Nashua, NH offers the best of all worlds: just 45 minutes from Boston, less than an hour to the New Hampshire seacoast, and an hour to the White Mountains—perfect for city, beach, or outdoor adventures.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
• Generous paid time off: vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Family YMCA membership
• Discounts on programs, sports, and camps
• Retirement contributions after two years of qualifying service

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Responsible, with the Lead Teacher, for Early Childcare curriculum development.
• Provides Early Childcare program delivery and classroom supervision.
• Supervises or facilitates curriculum activities to provide positive learning experiences for all children.
• Sets and maintains appropriate standards for children’s behavior, using non-punitive methods which teach self-discipline while supporting children’s self-esteem.
• Provides careful and concentrated supervision of play areas to insure children’s safety and learning.
• Carries out clerical, cleaning and facility maintenance duties as assigned.
• Attends all staff meetings and training sessions.
• Maintains a cooperative relationship with all other staff members.
• Interacts positively with all parents and refers questions and concerns to the Lead teacher as appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned and agreed upon.
• Earns 18 continuing education hours within the first nine months of employment and maintains the 18 hours at all times thereafter

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required Qualifications

· A minimum of nine college credits in Early Childhood Education or a related field, subject to applicable New Hampshire licensing requirements.

· A genuine interest in supporting the growth, development, and well-being of young children.

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

· Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

· Demonstrated patience, creativity, flexibility, and sound judgment.

· Commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment.

· Ability to meet applicable state licensing, background screening, and YMCA employment requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

· Previous experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschool-age children in a licensed early childhood education setting.

· Familiarity with developmentally appropriate teaching practices and positive behavior guidance.

· Interest in continued education and professional growth within the early childhood education field.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

· Ability to lift up to 40 pounds

· Quick response to ensure child safety

· Vision and mobility to support active supervision
(Reasonable accommodations available.)

YMCA COMPETENCIES:

· Relationships: Builds strong connections with children, families, and peers

· Inclusion: Welcomes and values people of all backgrounds and abilities

· Innovation: Brings fresh ideas to create positive learning experiences

· Quality Results: Delivers a high-value, mission-driven program

· Self-Development: Pursues ongoing learning and professional growth

OUR CULTURE:

At the Y, we live our mission of strengthening spirit, mind, and body for all.
We are:

• Welcoming – Open to all, where you can belong and become
• Genuine – We value you and embrace your individuality
• Nurturing – Supporting your journey to reach your full potential
• Hopeful – Believing in you and the difference you can make
• Determined – Working together to build stronger communities