What are the responsibilities and job description for the Youth Development Associate - Preschool Assistant position at Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA?
POSITION DETAILS:
Job Title: Youth Development Associate - Preschool Assistant at YMCA
Status: Full-Time Non-Exempt
Department: Youth Development
Reports to: Director of Youth Development
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Youth Development Associate - Preschool Assistant plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children while supporting daily program activities and building strong relationships with families. Guided by the YMCA’s core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—we foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Foster a warm and supportive environment where children feel a sense of belonging and develop confidence through achievement.
- Ensure a physically and emotionally safe learning space for all children.
- Support the implementation of curriculum that encourages positive youth development.
- Provide active supervision of children, maintaining proper ratios and engagement throughout the day.
- Build strong, positive relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open and professional communication.
- Assist with preparing and organizing age-appropriate materials for daily activities.
- Ensure program space and equipment are clean, organized, and safe; promptly report any safety concerns.
- Attend required staff meetings, training, and family engagement events.
- Uphold YMCA policies and represent the organization with professionalism, integrity, and respect
- Adhere to all local, state, and YMCA policies and procedures, including ADA accommodations where appropriate.
- Model YMCA core values and use the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support the program and broader YMCA mission.
YMCA COMPETENCY AREAS:
- Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Applies sound judgment and problem-solving in a dynamic youth environment.
- Communication & Influence: Builds respectful and supportive relationships with children, families, and team members.
- Functional Expertise (Youth Development): Demonstrates basic knowledge and ability to support the delivery of safe, engaging, and age-appropriate youth programs in alignment with YMCA guidelines and values.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred.
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Ability to plan, organize, and support age-appropriate activities.
- Experience working with diverse populations.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS (or willingness to obtain upon hire):
- YMCA-approved Bloodborne Pathogens Training
- Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
- Emergency Procedures Training
- CPR and First Aid Certification
- All State-specific licensing and training requirements for the state of employment (Iowa, Nebraska, or South Dakota)
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds safely and repeatedly using proper technique.
- Physically able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, sit on the floor, and move quickly to respond to children's needs.
- Participate in active play, including indoor and outdoor activities in a variety of weather conditions.
- Maintain continuous visual and auditory supervision of children in busy, dynamic environments.
- Adapt to a fast-paced, team-centered work environment with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
- Must demonstrate emotional resilience, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA’s mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.