Assistant Teacher (Early Childhood Program Specialist 1) Infant/Toddler & Preschool - Head Start - Permanent, Hourly

CCS Spokane • Spokane, WA

20d • Hybrid

About The Position

Under general supervision of the Center Manager, the Assistant Teacher assists in performing recurring routine job duties and assignments under the daily direction of the Lead and/or Associate Teacher in implementing the educational curriculum and the general operation of a Head Start/Early Head Start (HS/EHS) early childhood classroom. This is a permanent, hourly position.

Requirements

• Current First Aid/CPR training or ability to obtain (as available through Spokane Colleges).
• Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbally.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional/ethical boundaries with families and staff members.
• Ability to maintain a healthy, safe and welcoming environment both inside and outside of the classroom.
• Knowledge of appropriate techniques for diapering, sanitation, napping, feeding and toilet training.
• Ability to work on and pivot between multiple tasks and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work without assistive equipment that may compromise or interfere with the physical safety of children and staff in the learning environment.
• Work is active in nature.
• Frequent use of computers and exposure to terminal screens.
• Work in an environment of frequent interruptions and distractions.
• Move up to 25 lbs. frequently and up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Frequent kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing and twisting.
• Frequent repetitive hand/wrist motions and finger manipulation.
• Frequent repetitive reaching, grabbing, and stretching.
• Frequent oral and auditory communication with others.
• Requires communication ability necessary to understand instructions and recognize hazardous, unsafe or poisonous materials and/or products.
• Occasional exposure to fumes, dust, odors and/or biohazards.
• Permanent, hourly position.
• Work schedule will be determined by the supervisor.
• This position is overtime eligible.
• Post-Offer medical exam which includes tuberculin screening and submission of documentation indicating Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) vaccination or immunity.
• Pre-Employment Post Offer, criminal history/child abuse information check including Department of Children, Youth and Families Portable Background Check prior to employment.
• First aid/CPR certification (or ability to obtain when training is offered by Spokane Colleges).
• Valid Food Workers Card (as available through Washington State Department of Health).
• Criminal background check is required.
• This position is eligible for coverage under a collective bargaining agreement.
• Person hired must be able to provide acceptable documentation of U.S. Citizenship or lawful authorization to work in the United States.
• Must be able to successfully work in and promote a multicultural work and education environment.
• Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted.
• Once an applicant is chosen for a position, they are required to complete and submit a declaration regarding sexual misconduct and investigation per state law.

Nice To Haves

• One year of experience in childcare OR equivalent education/experience.
• Washington State Early Childhood Education (ECE) certificate OR Current Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate.
• One or more years’ experience working with infant/toddler/preschool aged children.
• Previous experience with Head Start/Early Head Start or working with low-income families from a variety of cultural groups, especially English as a Second Language (ESL).
• Basic computer skills including email and word processing.
• Previous experience with Teaching Strategies Gold and Creative Curriculum Tools.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparation and implementation of classroom and outside daily routines and activities.
• Utilize daily routines to support individual learning opportunities.
• Assist in the development, implementation and documentation of an early childhood curriculum.
• Assist in assessing the developmental needs of infants/toddlers and/or preschoolers; track individual progress by recording ongoing assessments and assist with the development of individualized learning opportunities, inclusive of children with disabilities.
• Promote and protect children’s health by adhering to Individual Health Plans (IHP) and special diet needs.
• Attend to children’s personal needs and model routine care as a component of primary caregiving.
• Assist in conducting developmental screenings, providing referrals and arranging follow-up services and ensuring parents are involved in curriculum planning and child observations in the classroom environment.
• Assist with maintaining required documentation, record and supplies.
• May assist and/or perform work of the Lead and/or Associate Teacher and guide children for specified periods when the teacher(s) are absent.
• Work effectively as a member of a classroom and direct services team to provide integrated, comprehensive services to children and families.
• May participate in case management, home visits, center conferences and the development and implementation of Children’s Individual Plans (CIP) and family transition plans with Direct Service Team.
• Participate in essential meetings and trainings as directed.
• Model professional decorum and mutual respect in all personal interactions.
• Comply with district policies, procedures and directives, state and federal regulations, orders and statutes and collective bargaining agreements.
• Support and advance Spokane Colleges’ strategic plan, and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, life and long term disability insurance benefits are provided as currently administered under Public Employees Benefits Board; WA State Retirement Plan; vacation and sick leave begin to accrue at the rate of one (1) day per month, upon employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed