COMPANY OVERVIEW

The Olympic Peninsula YMCA is a non-profit organization that provides programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our mission is to strengthen communities through programs and services that build healthy spirit, mind, and body. We emphasize the values of caring, respect, responsibility, and honesty, welcoming individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position: Preschool Teacher (Preschool, Ages 2.5 - 5)
Job Type: Part-time with potential to transition to full-time as program expands
Schedule: Occasional evening and/or weekend hours may be required
Location: On-site in Port Townsend, WA
Working Conditions: Busy, dynamic environment, indoors and outdoors, with occasional off-site field trips.

General Function:

The preschool teacher will be responsible for supervising young children, facilitating classroom activities, and supporting other daily classroom functions. They will work as part of a team to plan, lead, and implement lessons and activities in alignment with the provided educational curriculum. The role includes teaching engaging classes (e.g., fitness, art, team-building, nutrition, social/emotional learning, and academics), providing high-quality experiences aligned with YMCA core values, and supporting program activities such as nap-time routines, diapering, kitchen assistance, and maintenance tasks as needed.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

●  Supervise and manage children in the preschool program.

●  Provide positive guidance, set clear boundaries, and apply growth-oriented discipline when necessary - treating children with respect and dignity.

●  Foster an inclusive and supportive environment - adapting teaching methods to accommodate children with diverse learning styles and developmental needs.

●  Manage classroom dynamics and implement age-appropriate conflict resolution strategies as necessary.

● Maintain open and effective communication with children, staff, and parents.

● Plan and implement age-appropriate lessons in alignment with the curriculum.

● Collaborate with staff to ensure a safe, fun, and relevant program.

● Attend staff meetings, trainings, and field trips as required, including swimming, and assist where needed.

● Uphold positive discipline, safety protocols, and YMCA policies.

● Ensure compliance with safety, supervision, and risk management procedures.

● Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations in accordance with mandated reporting requirements.

● Ensure equipment and operations meet health and safety standards.

● Maintain a clean and organized workspace.

● Assist with diapering and provide support for children in the process of potty training, following all health and safety guidelines.

● Uphold high standards for nutrition and quality food service practices.

● Submit accurate timesheets for supervisor approval.

● Wear appropriate YMCA attire as per the dress code policy.

● Flexible schedule as needed, including occasional evenings and weekends.

● Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

●  Must be 18 years of age or older

●  High school diploma or equivalent—some college education preferred.

●  Prior experience working with children preferred, including informal or non-work settings.

●  Prior experience working with preschool age children (ages 2.5-5) a plus.

●  Knowledge of child development preferred.

●  Ability to plan and facilitate age-appropriate lessons and activities.

●  Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations.

●  Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively connect and build relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

●  Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and facilitate smooth activity transitions.

●  Ability to problem-solve and adapt to changing environments.

●  Basic computer skills, including working with Microsoft Office, program and operating software, and internet applications

●  CPR and First-Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days).

●  Pass a comprehensive background check.

●  Obtain a food handler’s permit upon hire (YMCA funded).

DCYF Licensing Requirements

● Complete the applicable pre-service licensing requirements including DCYF and Childcare Basics trainings (YMCA funded).

● Provide education transcripts through MERIT if applicable.

● Provide documentation of a negative TB test result per licensing requirements.

● Must have or be willing to obtain an ECE Initial Certificate (12 credits within 5 years of hire).

● For lead teacher roles: must have or be willing to obtain the ECE Short Certificate (8 additional credits within 2 years after earning the Initial Certificate).

DRIVER REQUIREMENTS

Private Vehicle, Requesting Reimbursement

●  Valid driver’s license

●  Proof of Insurance

YMCA Vehicle

●  25 years of age or older (per insurance requirements)

●  Valid driver’s license

●  Driving record which meets or exceeds YMCA standards

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands outlined here are representative of those required for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to assist individuals with disabilities in fulfilling these essential functions.

●  Ability to lift a small to average-sized child and carry supplies up to 25 lbs.

●. Capability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods.

●  Visual and auditory ability to see and hear distress signals and respond to critical situations—specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and the capacity to adjust focus as needed.

●. Ability to bend, crouch, reach, and kneel as necessary for play and daily activities—which may require the occasional need to balance or climb.

●  Ability to act swiftly in an emergency.

●  Capacity to project voice and communicate across distances.

●. Dexterity to operate computers and standard office equipment.

YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Interested? APPLY NOW