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Preschool Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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Preschool Teacher

Webster, NY · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Early Childhood Teacher (Infant, Toddler & Pre-K) Company: Kids First Childcare Location: Rochester ... * Assist children with meals, hygiene, diapering, toileting, and rest time as appropriate.

Assistant Director

Rochester, NY · On-site

$37K - $48K/yr

Ensure criteria are infused in all operations and decisions. * Assist the Director with national paperwork and actions. * Ensure that field trip procedures are carried out in accordance with the ...

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Preschool Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do preschool assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for preschool assistant in Rochester, NY is $16.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a preschool assistant?

A preschool assistant provides support to lead teachers of at a preschool. As a preschool assistant, your job duties include supervising children during free play and instructional activities, directing instructional activities independently or alongside the lead teacher, working one-on-one or in small groups with children who need extra help, assisting with meal and snack times, helping potty-trained children with bathroom breaks, and changing diapers for younger children. You also collaborate with the lead teacher to assess the students' social, behavioral, and physical development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a preschool assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preschool Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of early childhood development, classroom support techniques, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification in childcare. Familiarity with educational software, classroom management systems, and basic first aid/CPR certification is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and a nurturing attitude are crucial soft skills for engaging young children and supporting teachers. These skills and qualities are vital for fostering a safe, positive learning environment and promoting healthy development in preschool-aged children.

What are some common challenges faced by preschool assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Preschool Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing energetic groups of young children, addressing diverse learning needs, and maintaining classroom routines. Effective communication with the lead teacher, consistent use of positive reinforcement, and flexibility in adapting activities can help manage these challenges. Building strong relationships with both children and colleagues fosters a supportive environment, making it easier to handle unexpected situations and ensure a smooth classroom experience.

What is the difference between Preschool Assistant vs Teacher Assistant?

AspectPreschool AssistantTeacher Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require early childhood education certificationsHigh school diploma; some positions may require related certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood education settingsElementary schools, preschools, or other educational settings
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in early childhood educationAcross various grade levels, including preschool and elementary
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in early childhood educationComparing support roles in schools

Preschool Assistants focus specifically on early childhood settings, supporting preschool teachers and caring for young children. Teacher Assistants may work across different grade levels, including preschool and elementary, with broader responsibilities. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in educational environments, but Preschool Assistants specialize in early childhood development.

What does a preschool assistant teacher do at a preschool?

A preschool assistant teacher supports lead teachers in supervising and caring for young children, helping with classroom activities, ensuring safety, and promoting social and developmental skills. They often assist with lesson preparation, maintain a clean environment, and may need basic first aid or CPR certification. Their role is essential in creating a positive learning environment for preschoolers.

What qualifications do you need to be a preschool assistant?

To be a preschool assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require early childhood education (ECE) certification or coursework. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with young children are also important qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Preschool jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Preschool jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Preschool Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Preschool Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Preschool Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Preschool Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Preschool Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Preschool Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Preschool Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,645 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

$18/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


YMCA Of Greater Rochester rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

562nd of 777 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Description

Mon, Wed, Fri 9AM-12PM and/or Tues, Thurs 9AM-12PM 

$18/hr. and a Free YMCA Membership


POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Child Care Director, the Preschool Teacher and is responsible for planning and implementing the daily program as it relates to children and their classroom activities. Major emphasis is on program excellence and developing quality care of the highest standard. The Preschool Teacher will maintain ongoing program continuity by ensuring that schedules, programs and facility use plans are followed. The incumbent will supervise any staff and volunteers that are assigned to them, maintain a safe environment for all participants, and communicate with parents/guardians regularly. The position is responsible for demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies to ensure the mission, purpose, image and core values of the YMCA of Greater Rochester is conveyed.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Plan, prepare and execute an age-appropriate, values-based curriculum, including being ready and on-time for each class with all materials.

Maintain attendance and information sheets on each child enrolled in the program.

Plan events to involve parents and families in the program.

Maintain communication with parents through bulletin boards, newsletters, and parent conferences when appropriate.

Prepare supply orders and purchase supplies as directed, within budget guidelines.

Responsible for the overall facility appearance, and related equipment.

Provide guidance to program assistants, and volunteers.

Responsible for assisting with the financial development of Annual Campaign.

Attend all required meetings and training.

Maintain required certifications.

All other duties as assigned.


Requirements



Must be at least 21 years of age and possess a degree in Early Childhood Education or equivalent experience.

Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice for Preschool-aged children.

Must have experience leading preschool programs.

Bring to this position maturity, responsibility, and a sincere interest in working with children.

Possess strong interpersonal, communication, and organization skills.

Must possess CPR/AED and First Aid certifications or have the ability within 60 days of employment.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to supervise children by sight and sound at all times.

Ability to move quickly to react to safety issues in the setting (i.e. climbing, aggressive behavior).

Ability to move around the room to assist children and supervise children with daily activities, social interaction, physical and emotional needs.

Ability to lift young children and objects (supplies) up to 40 lbs.

Ability to work in all elements (i.e. outside in all weather)

Ability to move from program site to branch or site to site, and is required to enter all YMCA environments including, program space, buses, schools, pools, and program area.


The YMCA of Greater Rochester provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.


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