Assistant Teacher (Toddler & Preschool)

The Colonie Youth Center, Inc. is seeking a qualified, caring, and dependable Assistant Teacher to support classroom programming in our childcare center located at the Shaker Place Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Colonie, New York. The center serves approximately 66 children across five classrooms, including toddlers and preschool-age children.

The Assistant Teacher works collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment that supports children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. This position involves supporting daily classroom operations, engaging children in meaningful learning experiences, and fostering positive relationships with families and staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Classroom Support & Curriculum Implementation

• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities for toddlers and preschool children.
• Assist the Lead Teacher with all aspects of daily classroom routines and programming.
• Supervise children's play and learning activities to ensure a safe and engaging environment.
• Engage actively with children through play, conversation, and learning experiences.
• Facilitate learning through play and other activities that support growth across all developmental domains.
• Lead and assist with small-group and whole-group activities.
• Prepare classroom materials, supplies, and learning environments for activities and lessons.

Child Care & Development

• Support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Assist children with self-care routines, including toileting, dressing, hygiene, and clothing changes as needed.
• Provide additional support to children who may experience challenges participating in group activities.
• Assist with meals and snacks while promoting family-style dining experiences.
• Encourage independence, positive social interactions, and age-appropriate behavior.

Health, Safety & Supervision

• Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment.
• Participate in daily cleaning, sanitizing, and classroom maintenance activities.
• Ensure compliance with all Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations and program policies.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and program operations.
• Temporarily assume Lead Teacher responsibilities, when trained, during brief teacher absences.

Family & Team Collaboration

• Build and maintain professional, positive relationships with parents and families.
• Communicate effectively with teachers, administration, and families regarding classroom activities and child development.
• Attend required monthly staff meetings and trainings.
• Assist with center-wide programs, events, and activities.
• Support the Director and teaching staff in creating a positive learning community.

Professional Development

• Complete 15 hours of professional development within the first six months of employment.
• Complete 30 hours of professional development every two years, as required by OCFS.
• Remain informed about best practices in early childhood education and childcare regulations.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with young children.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Dependable, flexible, and professional demeanor.
• Sensitivity to the diverse needs of children and families.
• Ability to meet all licensing requirements, including background checks, fingerprinting, and physical examinations.

Preferred

• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential.
• Associate Degree (A.A.S.) in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Knowledge of New York State OCFS regulations and childcare licensing standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry children, equipment, and classroom materials.
• Ability to sit, kneel, bend, and work on the classroom floor for extended periods.
• Participation in daily classroom cleaning and maintenance tasks.
• Ability to assist children with toileting, diapering, accidents, and clothing changes as needed.
• Ability to actively supervise and engage with children throughout the day.

Schedule

• Full-Time
• Monday through Friday
• No nights
• No weekends

The Colonie Youth Center, Inc. is committed to providing a high-quality early childhood education program where children, families, and staff thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment. We encourage passionate and qualified individuals dedicated to the growth and development of young children to apply.

Pay: $17.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18