Preschool Teacher Assistant

Oregon Child Development Coalition • Gresham, OR

9d • $20 - $27

About The Position

The Preschool Teacher Assistant collaborates with the teacher to provide a positive learning environment and curriculum that support children’s social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development. The role follows Head Start Performance Standards, OCDC policies and procedures, USDA requirements, CCD Licensing regulations, and other applicable standards.

The position supports classroom teaching, supervision, learning activities, child assessment and documentation, communication with families, and healthy practices. The posting lists four education-based classifications—E, CE, C, and A—with different education, coursework, Oregon Registry, and CDA requirements. Hourly pay ranges vary by classification and location, with higher stated ranges for Metro locations in Washington and Multnomah Counties. Placement within a range depends on factors such as relevant experience, skills, certifications, and internal equity.

Requirements

• For Preschool Teacher Assistant E: High school diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria, with an Oregon Registry Step below 8, and a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate within 6 months of hire; or a one-year Oregon community college certificate in the field with early childhood development training or coursework focused on preschool development within 1 year of hire; or enrollment in an associate’s or bachelor’s program in early childhood education or child development, to be completed within 2 years of hire.
• For Preschool Teacher Assistant CE: High school diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria, with an Oregon Registry Step of 8 or higher, and a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate within 6 months of hire; or a one-year Oregon community college certificate in the field with early childhood development training or coursework focused on preschool development within 1 year of hire; or enrollment in an associate’s or bachelor’s program in early childhood education or child development, to be completed within 2 years of hire.
• For Preschool Teacher Assistant C: High school diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria, and a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate; or a one-year Oregon community college certificate in the field with early childhood development training or coursework focused on preschool development.
• For Preschool Teacher Assistant A: Associate’s degree or higher in early childhood education or child development; or a degree in any field with coursework equivalent to a major relating to early childhood education or child development, plus early childhood development training or coursework focused on preschooler development and/or education.
• For the stated Oregon community college certificate or college coursework pathways, the posting specifies Oregon Registry Step 8 or higher; for the degree or college coursework pathway, it specifies Oregon Registry Step 9 or higher.

Responsibilities

• Support the classroom teacher in maintaining a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment.
• Supervise children indoors and outdoors using positive guidance and behavior-management techniques.
• Assist with classroom setup, organization, cleaning, and inventory of materials and supplies.
• Support implementation of individualized curriculum and daily classroom activities.
• Help balance teacher-directed and child-directed learning experiences.
• Assist with observations, assessments, and maintaining children’s portfolios and documentation.
• Communicate regularly with the teacher regarding children’s health, behavior, and development.
• Support family engagement, including newsletters, conferences, and home visits.
• Promote healthy practices related to nutrition, wellness, and child development.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow all safety policies and procedures.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees working 20 or more hours per week.
• Retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and paid leave programs.
• Employer-paid life and disability coverage, with voluntary options available.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
• Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources.
• Optional pet insurance.

What This Job Offers

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