Head Start Teaching Assistant
About The Position
The Head Start Teaching Assistant supports children ages 3–5 in developing the skills and confidence they need for school and beyond. Working alongside the lead teacher, the assistant helps create a nurturing, engaging classroom and supports children’s educational, social, and emotional development. The position also contributes to Head Start’s broader mission through health, nutrition, and family engagement activities. This is a full-time, non-exempt, hourly position based in the Hawkins County, Tennessee area. It is expected to work approximately 30 hours per week, 44–46 weeks per school year, with a summer layoff of approximately 6–8 weeks. Workdays are Monday through Friday, with varying day-shift hours. Elected benefits continue during the temporary summer layoff. The stated hourly range is $13.00–$14.75, based on education: $13.00 for a high school education and $14.75 for a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development. Teaching Assistants may qualify for supplemental TN DHS childcare WAGE$ based on education and service requirements.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential within two years of employment.
- One year of experience working with preschool children.
- Ability to think and problem-solve creatively.
- Basic use of Microsoft Office programs.
- Proficient written and verbal communication.
- Vision of 20/40 with or without corrective lenses.
- Hearing within normal limits, with or without hearing aids.
- Physical ability to get down on the floor with children, sit on child-size furniture, run after and chase children if necessary, and lift furniture, equipment, and children weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Meet all requirements outlined in the State of Tennessee DHS Standards for Day Care Centers Serving Preschool Children.
- Valid Tennessee driver’s license and proof of auto insurance.
Nice To Haves
- A Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development is associated with the higher stated hourly wage; it is not listed as a minimum requirement.
- May qualify for supplemental TN DHS childcare WAGE$ based on education and service requirements.
Responsibilities
- Support children's social and emotional development using positive guidance.
- Help organize and maintain a safe, healthy classroom and teach transportation safety.
- Observe and assess children and assist in planning activities to meet each child’s needs.
- Conduct home visits, attend parent meetings, and communicate with families.
- Collaborate with staff to support families and help them access resources.
- Prepare records, submit reports, and attend meetings and training.
- Follow agency policies and complete tasks assigned by supervisors.
- Assist children on and off the bus as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Paid fall break, winter break, spring break, and holidays.
- Healthcare coverage through the State of Tennessee; UETHDA covers 100% of the monthly premium for employee-only plans, valued at approximately $600 per month or $7,200 annually. Additional coverage options are available, with the employee paying the cost difference.
- One day of healthcare/personal leave accrued per month (12 days per year).
- Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System (TCRS) retirement plan. Eligible employees contribute 5% of annual wages on a pre-tax basis; UETHDA contributes an amortized amount as determined by TCRS. Employees become fully vested after five years of eligible service.
- Group Term Life Insurance equal to 1.5 times annual wages, fully paid by UETHDA.
- Voluntary Life Insurance offered.
- Dental, vision, short-term disability, and long-term disability options available at 100% cost to the employee.
- Additional 401(k) and 457 savings plans available without employer match.
- Elected benefits continue during the temporary summer layoff.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
