Teacher Assistant, Early Childhood Education

Teacher Assistant, Early Childhood Education (4108C) #86243

Early Childhood Education Program (ECEP) serves over 260 children (3 months through pre‑kindergarten) for university families and community families. The program includes over 60 career FTE positions, 10–30 limited and per diem substitutes, and 60–80 student assistants who work daily with children and families to provide high‑quality early education.

This position requires a strong foundation in ECE pedagogy and developmentally appropriate care and educational practices for young children in a group setting that utilizes low adult‑to‑child ratios. Under general supervision, the Assistant Teacher supports a play‑based, emergent curriculum, prepares and implements lesson plans to meet individual needs within a group setting, and helps lead both small‑ and large‑group activities appropriate to the children’s age and developmental level.

The program follows the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) best practices and a caregiving philosophy recommended by the Program for Infant and Toddler Care (PITC). Assistant Teachers assist with lesson planning, parent communication, and child screening and assessment, supporting teachers and families while ensuring compliance with licensing regulations and standards.

Classroom Responsibilities

• Provide caregiving functions such as diapering, napping, feeding, and nurturing, and help maintain a positive, safe, and nurturing environment for children and families.
• Ensure appropriate ratios and child safety throughout the shift.
• Model intentional learning and supportive emerging literacy practices in all interactions with children, and demonstrate professional behavior.
• Help prepare materials and classroom opportunities that align with children’s emerging interests and address individual needs, stimulating curiosity and foundational developmental skills.
• Participate in meetings with Teachers to discuss concerns and plan curriculum.
• Support NAEYC “best practices” and follow the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.
• Support PITC philosophy in infant/toddler rooms when operationally possible.
• Observe and interact with children individually, share observations with staff, and provide written and verbal feedback to teachers.
• Provide input to teachers in support of parent/teacher conferences.
• Use respectful language and positive guidance when addressing children’s behavior and participate in classroom management to maintain a positive learning atmosphere, including all children regardless of background.

Professional Responsibilities

• Attend all required meetings, trainings, and performance reviews as scheduled and assigned by supervisor.
• Represent ECEP professionally in communication with parents, staff, and campus community, and consult supervisors when unsure.
• Develop collaborative and respectful relationships with peers, supervisors, and managers.
• Address conflicts timely and involve Site Director or other management when appropriate.
• Adhere to policies in the ECEP Teacher Resource Guide and NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor that are appropriate to classification and within CBA.

• Basic computer use including keyboard, mouse, email, and internet search.
• Proficiency with basic‑level MS Word.
• Ability to safely manage multiple children within established ratios and provide engaging activities.
• Proofreading skills for own work.
• Ability to work with diverse clientele using patience, tact, sensitivity, and diplomacy.
• Teaching experience and ability to work independently in a center‑based child care program.
• Knowledge of developmental needs and appropriate learning experiences for children 3 months to 5 years.
• Familiarity with child development theory and practice.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand and walk for up to 4 hours per day, and bend or squat for child‑eye level activities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• High School Diploma or GED required, or equivalent experience/training.
• Minimum 12 or more ECE units, including at least 3 Infant and Toddler units, required if hired for an infant/toddler room.