Program Aide (Part-Time)

Clinton Hill Community & Early Childhood Center • Newark, NJ

3h

About The Position

The Program Aide supports the daily operation of the early childhood classroom by assisting teachers with supervision, care routines, learning activities, and classroom organization. This role helps ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children while maintaining compliance with licensing and program standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to meet state licensing requirements for background checks and health clearances
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and actively engage with young children
• Willingness to follow direction and work as part of a team

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with young children (child care, ECE, camp, or similar setting)
• CDA coursework or interest in pursuing early childhood credentials
• Familiarity with infant/toddler or preschool classroom routines

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in supervising children at all times to ensure safety and active supervision
• Support daily routines including arrival, departure, meals, naps, toileting, diapering, and transitions
• Help implement planned activities under the direction of the teacher
• Encourage positive behavior, social-emotional development, and age-appropriate independence
• Interact with children in a warm, respectful, and responsive manner
• Follow all health, safety, sanitation, and supervision policies
• Assist with cleaning and sanitizing classroom materials, toys, and surfaces
• Support proper handwashing, diapering, and toileting procedures
• Report injuries, incidents, or concerns to the supervising teacher or site leadership immediately
• Help maintain required ratios and group size at all times
• Prepare materials and set up learning areas as directed
• Assist with classroom clean-up and organization throughout the day
• Help maintain accurate attendance and routine documentation as assigned
• Support classroom coverage as needed to maintain ratios
• Work collaboratively with teachers and staff to support classroom goals
• Communicate respectfully with families when appropriate, under teacher guidance
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff

Benefits

• Access to voluntary benefits (Aflac, Colonial Life)
• Paid sick and safe leave
• Paid holidays and breaks (based on position schedule)
• Ongoing professional development and coaching
• Opportunities for advancement through internal job board and leadership programs
• Tuition reimbursement and support for credentialing (CDA, teacher certification)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with mental health and wellness support
• Meaningful work in a mission-driven, family-centered environment
• Participation in events, celebrations, and cultural enrichment activities

What This Job Offers

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