Assistant Teacher (Float) (Part-time): Tacoma, WA

Bezos Academy•Tacoma, WA

23h•Onsite

About The Position

Bezos Academy is hiring a part-time Assistant Teacher (internally titled Assistant Teacher I) to support its Tacoma–Hilltop preschool. The role supports a nurturing, safe, and stimulating Montessori-inspired learning environment and helps the school provide preschool at no cost to families in under-resourced communities. Responsibilities vary according to the needs of the school, students, and the Assistant Teacher’s experience. The position is hourly and non-exempt, requires at least 25 hours per week, and follows a regular weekday shift. The expected daily shift is either 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. or 10:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; occasional additional hours may be available based on school needs. The Assistant Teacher floats to provide support where needed, including classroom supervision, transitions, outdoor time, rest time, meal service, and general school operations. The role also includes assisting with classroom preparation and cleanup, supporting children’s independence with daily living skills, maintaining records and licensing requirements, and completing onboarding, Montessori basics training, credentialing, and ongoing professional development. The position may require providing support at nearby Bezos Academy schools when directed by school leadership. The Tacoma–Hilltop school is located at 2141 S J St, Tacoma, WA 98405. Compensation is $26–$29 per hour, with a starting rate of $26 per hour. Benefits include paid sick time accrued based on hours worked and a 401(k) plan with a 4% employer contribution match.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Be able to pass background checks and tuberculosis screenings.
Upon hire, successfully complete Washington State-required training to supervise children independently.
Be able to independently supervise, communicate effectively with, and safely care for young children.
Be able to lift at least 40 pounds.
Have reliable transportation to and from work and be able to consistently attend work as scheduled.
Have a valid Food Handler’s Permit or be willing to obtain one upon hire.
Complete 20 hours of onboarding by the seventh day of employment.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience supporting or teaching children ages 3–5 in a Montessori or early childhood classroom setting.
Experience working effectively across lines of difference and fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment for all children and families.
Strong communication and organizational skills, including the ability to manage classroom setup, safety checks, and basic clerical tasks.
Demonstrated reliability and flexibility in supporting school operations, including meal service, playground supervision, classroom coverage, and leading after-school activities.

Responsibilities

Serve as a floating assistant teacher, providing support wherever and however the school most needs it each day.
Independently supervise children as needed in classrooms and during arrival and departure, transitions, outdoor time, rest or nap time, and extended hours if offered.
Assist with maintaining accurate child and family records.
Complete Montessori basics training and credentialing or licensing requirements within seven days of hire.
Support classroom and school operations by following applicable regulations and guidelines, including cleaning and preparing materials, meal preparation and cleanup, nap-time transitions, laundry, and bathroom supervision.
Support school leadership and teachers in fostering a nurturing, safe, stimulating, and non-competitive school environment.
Help children develop independence with daily living skills, including handwashing, using the bathroom, eating meals and snacks, and cleaning up.
Maintain licensing and credentialing requirements and complete ongoing professional development training in a timely manner.
Attend staff meetings and family events as the schedule allows.
Assume low-level postures, such as kneeling, stooping, bending, and sitting on the floor, to communicate effectively with children.
Support nearby Bezos Academy schools as needed at the direction of the Head of School or District School Leader.
May assist in classrooms, serve and supervise mealtimes, support school operations, and lead after-school activities as needed.