Early Head Start Teacher Assistant

Job Title:

Early Head Start Teacher Assistant Report to:
Director of Early Childhood Education Compensation: $42,000 to $45,000 Annually Status:
Full time (Monday thru Friday 8:30am to 5pm, Year-round)

Location:

Chicago, ILNorthwestern Settlement provides a comprehensive range of programs to disrupt generational poverty through education, social services, and the arts. Our Early Childhood Education program serves toddlers fostering development in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that supports children and families holistically. The Early Head Start Teacher Assistant will support the Lead Teacher in creating and implementing a developmentally appropriate, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for toddlers.

This role ensures adherence to Head Start Performance Standards, Illinois DCFS licensing regulations, and Northwestern Settlement’s mission and core values.

Responsibilities:

Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing daily lesson plans and activities that align with Creative Curriculum and Early Head Start standards.

Support the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development of each child.

Foster a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment that promotes exploration and learning.

Supervise and interact with children positively, ensuring active engagement and safety at all times.

Assist in daily care routines including diapering, toileting, feeding, and napping per established protocols.

Observe and document children’s progress in collaboration with the Lead Teacher, contributing to assessments and parent-teacher conferences.

Maintain accurate records including attendance, incident reports, and meal counts.

Build trusting relationships with parents, supporting family engagement and communication in accordance with program expectations.

Participate in ongoing professional development, training, and reflective supervision.

Comply with all DCFS, Head Start, and agency policies, procedures, and health/safety regulations.

Serve as a positive ambassador of Northwestern Settlement and uphold its values of equity, respect, integrity, and compassion.

Qualifications:

Required:

Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education Minimum Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential with an infant-toddler endorsement.

Minimum of 1 year of experience working with toddlers in a licensed early childhood setting.

Ability to pass all required background checks and medical clearances.

Preferred:

Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.

Familiarity with Head Start/Early Head Start performance standards and Creative Curriculum.

Work Environment &

Physical Requirements:

Full-time, year-round position (Monday–Friday).Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and engage in active play with young children.

Frequent bending, kneeling, and sitting on the floor.

Occasional outdoor activities.

Compensation & Benefits:

Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. We offer a robust health benefits package. In addition, all staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including a dedicated workspace, laptop, email, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.

Statement of Non-Discrimination:

Northwestern Settlement is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.
****** To ensure a good fit, we kindly ask that only serious and qualified candidates apply.****
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