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Early Learning Center Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Early Learning Center Assistant Teacher

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$18.54 - $20.31/hr

As the Early Learning Assistant Teacher, you will support the Lead Teacher at the YMCA Early Learning Center (ELC) year-round to serve our community with a variety of activity options to explore and ...

YMCA

Early Learning Center Lead Teacher

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$22.36 - $25.32/hr

As the Early Learning Lead Teacher, you will support the YMCA Early Learning Center (ELC) program year-round to serve our community and youth with a variety of activity options to explore, develop ...

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How much do early learning center jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for early learning center in the United States is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Early Learning Center?

An Early Learning Center is a facility that provides care and educational programs for young children, typically from infancy through preschool age. These centers focus on fostering children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through structured activities and play-based learning. Early Learning Centers are staffed by trained educators who create a nurturing and safe environment to support children's growth and prepare them for kindergarten and beyond.

What are the common challenges faced by educators working in an Early Learning Center, and how can they be addressed?

Educators in Early Learning Centers often encounter challenges such as managing diverse learning needs, fostering social-emotional development, and maintaining effective communication with families. Adapting teaching methods to accommodate various developmental stages and backgrounds is crucial, as is creating an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. Regular collaboration with colleagues, ongoing professional development, and open dialogue with parents can help address these challenges and ensure each child's growth and well-being.

What is the difference between Early Learning Center vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectEarly Learning CenterPreschool Teacher
CredentialsChild development certifications, CDA or equivalentEarly childhood education degree or CDA
Work EnvironmentChildcare facilities, daycare centers, early learning programsPreschools, private or public early childhood classrooms
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare providers, early education organizationsPreschool programs, educational institutions
Common Search/ComparisonEarly Learning Center vs Preschool Teacher

While both roles focus on early childhood education, an Early Learning Center typically refers to the facility providing comprehensive care and early education, whereas a Preschool Teacher is a specific role within that setting, responsible for instructing children in preschool-aged programs. The main difference lies in the scope: the Early Learning Center is the environment, and the Preschool Teacher is the professional working within it.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Early Learning Center Teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Early Learning Center Teacher, you need a background in early childhood education, knowledge of child development, and often a relevant certification such as a CDA or state teaching license. Familiarity with classroom management systems, curriculum planning tools, and child assessment software is typically required. Patience, creativity, and strong interpersonal communication skills help foster a nurturing and engaging learning environment. These competencies are essential to support children's growth, ensure safety, and promote positive educational outcomes in early childhood settings.
More about Early Learning Center jobs
What cities are hiring for Early Learning Center jobs? Cities with the most Early Learning Center job openings:
What states have the most Early Learning Center jobs? States with the most job openings for Early Learning Center jobs include:
Early Learning Center jobs near you
Infographic showing various Early Learning Center job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 5% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,653 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Early Learning Center Assistant Teacher

Early Learning Center Assistant Teacher

YMCA

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$18.54 - $20.31/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,975 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 679 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is seeking an Early Learning Assistant Teacher to join our team.
Job Description
As the Early Learning Assistant Teacher, you will support the Lead Teacher at the YMCA Early Learning Center (ELC) year-round to serve our community with a variety of activity options to explore and develop the interests and talents of the youth so that children have fun, grow and thrive in our care. You will help in providing balanced recreation, education, and character development through enriched activities.
Qualifications
Are you a good fit?
  • You are at least 18 years old and have a High School Diploma or GED.
  • You have at least one year of experience working in an Early Learning setting.
  • Have or are willing to obtain an Early Childhood Education Initial Certificate.
  • You enjoy working with children and diverse populations.
  • You are able to lead a large group using behavior management skills.
  • You have or commit to obtaining CPR, Basic First Aid, Food Handlers, TB test, Child Care Basic STARS, proof of MMR vaccine, and a Merit account.
  • Able up to lift 50 lbs. and move quickly to engage with the children.
  • You are able to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on your first day, and other online and in-person training as required.
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
  • You are committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required

Essential Functions
Key Responsibilities:
  • Support and participate in ongoing recruitment efforts to ensure full enrollment.
  • Participate in planning the educational programs curriculum, and assist with the implementation of the daily classroom curriculum.
  • Prepare and organize the classroom and classroom materials in accordance with the planned classroom curriculum.
  • Plan and carry out educational planning meetings with families.
  • Complete daily attendance/meal count and/or snack production record.
  • Assist with record keeping on individual children and families as directed by Early Learning Center Director.
  • Complete written observations of individual children throughout the year. Develop a learning plan for each child within 90 days of school entry.
  • Prepare and serve snacks and meals; participate in and facilitate mealtime service and join children at the table for support and conversation

Ymca Careers
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Early Learning Center Lead Teacher
YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties

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