Preschool Assistant Teacher Enumclaw, WA

Job Description

Job Description

PELC is a learning center, not a babysitting center. We are looking for individuals with a strong passion for learning to join our team!

Responsibilities

The Preschool Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children ages 3–4 years old. This role includes assisting with curriculum activities, classroom organization, and daily routines while promoting early academic skills, social-emotional development, and independence. The Assistant Teacher works collaboratively with the classroom team to prepare children for their next educational stage.

Duties

The core duties of the Assistant Toddler Teacher follow, but these are not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties may change as needed to meet PELC’s needs.

• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing daily curriculum activities focused on early literacy, numeracy, art, science, and social skills.
• Prepare and set up classroom materials for lessons and activities.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and child-friendly environment.
• Support smooth transitions between activities, circle time, meals, naps, and outdoor play.
• Encourage independence in self-care routines such as dressing, toileting, and handwashing.
• Support children in developing communication, problem-solving, and cooperation skills.
• Engage with children in age-appropriate play, projects, and group activities.
• Observe children’s development and share observations with the Lead Teacher.
• Greet families warmly at drop-off and pick-up times.
• Provide brief, positive updates about children’s daily activities, referring detailed questions to the Lead Teacher.
• Support the center’s goal of building strong, trusting relationships with families.
• Follow all health, hygiene, and safety protocols, including frequent handwashing and sanitizing toys/equipment.
• Monitor children to ensure safe and positive interactions both indoors and outdoors.
• Report accidents, injuries, or concerns promptly to the Lead Teacher or Director.
• Work cooperatively with the Lead Teacher and other staff to ensure effective classroom management and positive learning experiences.
• Attend staff meetings, training, and professional development as required.
• Be flexible and willing to assist in other classrooms when needed.

Qualifications

• MERIT Profile Registered
• Minimum Age : 18 years
• Experience: A minimum of six months in childcare.
• Education :
  High school diploma or GED
• ECE Initial Certificate (12 ECE credits)
• → Must be completed by August 1st 2026 or within 5 years of hire.
• Associate degree or higher in ECE or related field
• → PELC requires their Assistant teacher to take a minimum of one class per quarter to complete their Associate Degree in ECE.
• Approved alternative qualifications
• Certifications: Current CPR/First Aid, Food Handler’s Permit, 30 Hours STARS* ,and state-required training (Safe Sleep, Mandated Reporter).
• Warm, caring personality with a passion for working with children.
• Ability to lift up to 45 pounds and engage in floor-level activities.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.

* Or education per DCYF that qualifies for 30-Hour STARS training exemption.

Work Schedule

• Full-time, Monday–Friday (hours to be determined).
• 8 hours shift
• Occasional evenings or weekends for events or training.

Benefits

• Professional development assistance
• Discount Childcare
• Retirement account
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off (1.5h per 40h worked)
• Paid holidays
• Paid lunch break
• Opportunity for financial education