Working with children can be a rewarding career choice. It is an opportunity to shape young minds and make a difference in their lives. Childcare workers provide a service that’s vital to parents, employers, and our communities.

Critical Workers

“Childcare workers are a critical part of our workforce, as they provide the means for parents to have a safe environment for their children while they work,” said Colleen Walters, the executive director of Lakeshore Little People’s Place (LLPP).

Lakeshore Little People’s Place and the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids are just two of many local childcare providers that are seeking qualified staff who enjoy working with children.

Rewards and Benefits

“No two days in childcare are ever the same,” said Cara Klesick, a talent acquisition specialist for the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. “You have the chance to collaborate with your team of co-teachers, express your creativity with lesson planning and projects, and watch children grow and develop.”

LLPP is hiring assistant teacher roles in classrooms in age ranges of infant to school-age. In addition to standard benefits, the company has a new hire sign-on bonus and offers a childcare discount for an employee’s own child.

The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids needs part and full-time lead teachers and assistant teachers in different age brackets. They also have a traditional benefits package. Depending on whether you work part or full-time, they offer a childcare discount for dependents, continued education opportunities, and a free YMCA membership.

Career Opportunities

Interested in working in childcare? The State of Michigan is hosting a childcare job fair for providers in West Michigan on Wednesday, February 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event will be held on Brazen, an online hiring platform. Employers and job seekers can connect via live video or chat.

Check out the participating childcare providers and register for next week’s virtual event.