Assistant, Teacher

Illinois Action For Children•Matteson, IL

About The Position

The Teacher Assistant supports children’s learning and development while helping build strong families and connected communities. The role focuses on fostering a love of learning, supporting children’s academic and personal growth, collaborating with parents and caregivers, and working with educators and community partners to strengthen support for children and families. The position also contributes to children’s sense of belonging, resilience, and pride. Candidates should care deeply about students, families, and the community; bring creativity to the classroom; collaborate and communicate effectively; and adapt to challenges. The role requires a high school diploma, with an associate’s degree preferred, and the employee must be working toward an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. The employee must obtain an ISBE Paraprofessional Certificate within 30 days of hire, paid for by IAFC, and hold or obtain a Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Credential Level 4 within six months of hire. Candidates must be at least 19 years old to serve students, have coursework or training relevant to teaching infants and toddlers, and have six months to one year of teaching or related experience. Successful candidates undergo a background screening. The starting salary is a minimum of $39,800, based on experience. External candidates are eligible for a $1,500 hiring bonus, paid 50% after 90 days of employment and 50% after one year. The employer describes a flexible and supportive environment, professional growth opportunities, and a collaborative team. The posting notes that job duties, work location, and/or work schedule may be amended at IAFC’s discretion.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Must be at least 19 years old to serve students.
Must be working toward an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
Must obtain an ISBE Paraprofessional Certificate within 30 days of hire; IAFC pays for it.
Must hold or obtain a Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Credential Level 4 within six months of hire.
Coursework or training relevant to teaching infants and toddlers.
Six months to one year of teaching or related experience.
Successful completion of a background screening.
Genuine care for students, families, and the community.
Creative approach to teaching and willingness to bring fresh ideas into the classroom.
Ability to collaborate and communicate with students, families, and community partners.
Adaptability and willingness to approach challenges as opportunities for growth.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Foster a love of learning that encourages students to dream big, think critically, and grow as individuals.
Collaborate with parents and caregivers to support children’s needs inside and outside the classroom.
Work with educators, community leaders, and families to build a network of support for the community.
Use teaching to foster academic success, belonging, resilience, and pride in children and families.

Benefits

$1,500 hiring bonus for external candidates, paid 50% after 90 days and 50% after one year of employment.
Health insurance, with a 95% company contribution for single coverage.
Dental insurance, with a 95% company contribution for single coverage.
Vision insurance, with a 95% company contribution for single coverage.
401(k) with company match.
Paid time off: 23 days in the first year, 28 days in the second year, and 35 days in the third year and thereafter.
11 paid holidays and one floating holiday.
Tuition reimbursement.
Flexible Spending Account.
Company-paid short-term disability insurance.
Company-paid long-term disability insurance.
Company-paid life insurance.
Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
Flexible and supportive work environment.