Early Childhood Program Specialist​/Assistant Teacher

Early Childhood Program Specialist 2 / Assistant Teacher

The Assistant Teacher at the WWU Child Development Center collaborates closely with Lead Teachers to plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum that is often child‑initiated and open‑ended. This position supports a positive, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for children, families, students, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Responsibilities include providing high‑quality early childhood services, fostering meaningful relationships with families, and mentoring WWU student Classroom Assistants.

As a key member of the Child Development Center, the Assistant Teacher contributes to the center's commitment to excellence, inclusion, and student learning.

This is a full‑time, 9.5 cyclic permanent position.

• Meet all Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) requirements including MERIT registration, current First Aid/CPR certification, Bloodborne Pathogens training, Safe Sleep training, and negative TB test.
• Minimum of one year of experience working with children ages 1‑5 in a licensed early learning or group care setting, and 30 quarter credits in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast‑paced early childhood environment while maintaining accurate documentation, organization, and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with a commitment to inclusive practices and respectful partnerships with children, families, students, and colleagues.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Outlook, and Excel.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 50 pounds and actively participate in classroom activities, including floor play and outdoor supervision.

• Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Experience using Teaching Strategies GOLD and other technology‑based tools for assessment and documentation.
• Experience creating classroom documentation and visual displays that support children's learning and development.

All employees must comply with the university's immunization policies, including Proof of Rubeola (measles) immunity within 60 days of hire. All new employees must provide employment eligibility verification as required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before beginning work. This position requires a fingerprint background check that includes a sexual misconduct component.

$3,864 - $4,242 per month, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits Overview for Classified Positions Bargaining Unit. This position is part of bargaining unit PT and is covered by the collective bargaining agreement with Public School Employees of WWU.

Application materials should address experience related to the position responsibilities and the required and preferred qualifications.

Application review begins July 23, 2026; position is open until filled.

Western Washington University (WWU) is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with applicable laws, WWU does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, citizenship or immigration status, pregnancy, use of protective leave, genetic status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, creed, religion, veteran or military status, disability, or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal (including a service animal in training) by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law, in its programs or activities, including employment, admissions, and educational programs.

WWU is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.