Child Care Assistant Teacher

Heartworks Early Education • Essex, VT

12d • $19 - $22 • Onsite

About The Position

Babilou Family US is seeking an Assistant Teacher to help create a safe, nurturing, and sustainable learning environment where children can grow, explore, and thrive. The Assistant Teacher supports the Certified Teacher in implementing learning experiences, maintaining an organized and environmentally responsible classroom, and building respectful relationships with children, families, and colleagues. The role applies Sustainable Education® principles and the company’s HONOR values: Humility, Open-Mindedness, Nurture, Ownership, and Recognition.

The location operates year-round, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The position works in active classroom settings, moving between indoor and outdoor spaces and collaborating regularly with children, families, and team members. Employees must complete a background check required by the Department of Early Education and Care.

Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
• Meet at least one of the following qualifications: Vermont Early Childhood Career Ladder Level One or Two Certificate; current CDA and at least 12 months of experience working with groups of children in grade three or younger; State Board of Education-approved Human Services Program Certificate emphasizing child development or early childhood education and at least 12 months of such experience; successful completion of the Fundamentals for Early Childhood Professionals course or Vermont Afterschool Essentials Certificate and at least 12 months of such experience; or successful completion of a three-credit college course in child or human development or school-age care and education and at least 12 months of such experience.
• Complete a background check as required by the Department of Early Education and Care.
• Meet the role’s physical requirements, including standing and walking for up to 75% of the workday; moving between sitting, standing, bending, kneeling, and squatting; lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds; sitting on the floor and participating in age-appropriate activities; supervising children in varied areas; and responding safely to emergencies.
• Follow and model all safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Certified Teacher in implementing daily lesson plans and learning experiences that support whole-child development and introduce age-appropriate sustainability concepts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and environmentally responsible classroom, including sustainable routines for materials, storage, and resource use.
• Supervise children during classroom activities, meals, transitions, and outdoor experiences.
• Recognize, document, and immediately report suspected child abuse, neglect, or endangerment as a Mandated Reporter in accordance with state law.
• Support individual developmental needs and nurture children’s understanding of caring for themselves, others, and the environment.
• Greet families and support communication practices, including digital updates and consistent messaging directed by the Certified Teacher.
• Participate in family engagement events, including sustainability-themed activities or community learning opportunities.
• Attend required training and maintain certifications related to early childhood education, safety, and sustainable practices.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to improve classroom systems, curriculum, and sustainability initiatives.

Benefits

• Up to 50% childcare tuition discount.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance effective on the first day of employment.
• Free First Stop Health membership with 24/7 virtual primary care, urgent care, and short-term mental health support.
• 401(k) retirement plan with an annual discretionary employer match contribution.
• Optional life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Performance-based pay, including increases tied to certification and/or degree completion.
• Career growth and professional development opportunities, including training, mentorship, and the CHILD Conference.
• Paid time off and holiday benefits, including an annual Winter Break closure between Christmas and New Year’s.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employee referral bonus program.
• Tuition and professional development reimbursement.
• Pet insurance.
• Additional lifestyle and fringe benefit programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED