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

Bezos Academy•Tacoma, WA

1d•$26 - $29•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 Montessori-inspired preschool serving children in under-resourced communities at no cost to families. As a floating assistant teacher, you provide support where the school needs it, which may include classroom assistance, mealtime service and supervision, and general school operations. Responsibilities vary based on the school site, student needs, and the employee’s prior experience. This is a non-exempt, hourly position requiring 25 hours per week, typically on a regular Monday-through-Friday shift. The expected daily shift is either 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. or 10:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; school leaders determine schedules based on staff, classroom, and community needs. Occasional additional hours may be available based on school needs. Compensation is $26–$29 per hour, with new employees starting at $26 per hour. Benefits include paid care (sick) time accrued based on hours worked and a 401(k) plan with a 4% employer contribution match. The position requires safe, independent supervision and care of young children, including the ability to lift at least 40 pounds and to assume low-level postures such as kneeling, stooping, bending, and sitting on the floor. The employee must complete 20 hours of onboarding by the seventh day of employment, as well as Montessori basics training and applicable credentialing or licensing requirements within seven days of hire.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Be able to pass background checks and clear tuberculosis screenings.
Upon hire, successfully complete Washington state-required trainings 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 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 children and families.
Strong communication and organizational skills, including the ability to manage classroom setup, safety checks, and basic clerical tasks.
Reliability and flexibility in supporting school operations, including meal service, playground supervision, classroom coverage, and leading after-school activities.

Responsibilities

Float to provide assistant-teacher support wherever and however the school needs it each day.
Independently supervise children as needed in classrooms and in situations including arrival and departure, transitions, outside time, rest or nap time, and extended hours if offered.
Assist in maintaining accurate child and family records.
Complete Montessori basics training and credentialing or licensing requirements within seven days of hire.
Follow regulations and guidelines in the day-to-day operation of the classroom and school.
Clean and prepare materials; support meal preparation and cleanup, nap-time transitions, laundry, and bathroom supervision.
Support school leaders and teachers in fostering a nurturing, safe, stimulating, and non-competitive school environment.
Support children’s increasing independence with daily living skills, including handwashing, bathroom use, eating meals and snacks, and cleaning up.
Maintain licensing and credentialing requirements and complete ongoing professional development trainings on time.
Attend staff meetings and family events as the schedule allows.
Assume low-level postures as needed to communicate effectively with children.
Provide support to nearby Bezos Academy schools as needed at the direction of the Head of School or District School Leader.