Job Description

Join the vibrant team at The Goddard School of Pioneer Square as an Assistant Teacher and help us nurture the extraordinary potential in every child. At our downtown Seattle preschool, we value collaboration, creativity, and a loving approach to education. As an Assistant Teacher, you will work side-by-side with our Lead Teachers to create a fun, safe, and engaging classroom where children (infants through pre-K) develop socially, emotionally, and academically. If you are an energetic team player with a passion for working with young children, this role offers a fantastic opportunity to grow your career with a premier early childhood program that is more than just childcare.

Responsibilities & Expectations:

Support Classroom Learning:

Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing age-appropriate lessons and activities that follow our Wonder of Learning(TM) curriculum. You'll help set up learning centers, guide children through projects, and adapt activities to different learning styles.

Child Supervision & Care:

Supervise and engage with children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being. This includes helping children with daily routines like snack, naptime, and toileting, and keeping the classroom environment clean, organized, and inviting.

Positive Interaction:

Foster a warm, inclusive classroom atmosphere. Interact with children at their level, join in play, and encourage them to talk, share, and explore. By modeling kindness and curiosity, you help advance children's social and intellectual skills.

Team Collaboration:

Work closely with your Lead Teacher to maintain a consistent approach. Communicate daily about lesson plans, child observations, and any classroom needs. Be ready to step in and take the lead temporarily if the Lead Teacher is absent, ensuring continuity of care (WAC 110-300-0100).

Classroom Management:

Help enforce classroom rules and routines that align with our school's positive guidance philosophy. Assist in observing child behaviors and milestones and share insights with the Lead Teacher to inform lesson planning.

Family Communication:

Greet parents and guardians warmly during drop-off and pick-up. Under the guidance of the Lead Teacher, help provide daily reports or updates to families about their child's day (e.g. activities, meals, naps) so parents feel connected and informed.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent (required by Washington state law) (WAC 110-300-0100). Coursework or training in Early Childhood Education is a plus; an ECE Initial Certificate (or willingness to obtain one within 5 years, per WAC guidelines) is encouraged (WAC 110-300-0100).

Experience:

Some experience working with young children in a group setting (such as childcare, babysitting, or volunteering) is highly preferred. If you have formal experience (1+ year in childcare or preschool), that's a bonus- but we are willing to train the right caring candidate who demonstrates potential.

State Requirements:

Must meet Washington licensing requirements for assistant teachers, including completion of the initial 30-hour STARS training (Child Care Basics) within 6 months of hire if not already completed. Candidates must pass a Department of Children, Youth, and Families background check and have a negative TB test on file before working with children (WAC 110-300-0100).

Certifications:

CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain quickly upon hire) is required for child safety. (We can help you get certified if you aren't already.)

Skills & Traits:

Reliability, patience, and a love for children are a must! You should be a cooperative team member with good communication skills. Ability to multitask (e.g., managing classroom prep while supervising children) and a willingness to learn from experienced teachers. Physical ability to lift up to 25 lbs and actively play with children on the floor or playground.

Salary & Benefits:

Health Insurance:

Full-time Assistant Teachers are eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance packages to support your health and well-being.

Paid Time Off:

Enjoy paid holidays and personal time off. We believe our teachers deserve rest and rejuvenation - you'll have a work schedule that supports work-life balance (and no weekends or nights required).

Professional Growth:

The Goddard School invests in your professional development. You will receive ongoing training (including access to Goddard University courses) and mentoring from seasoned educators. We love to promote from within - this role can be a steppingstone to Lead Teacher or other positions.

School Culture & Perks:

Join a positive, family-like work environment where your contributions are valued. Enjoy childcare benefits like discounted tuition for staff children. We also host fun staff appreciation events, and you'll have the support of an on-site owner and directors who truly care about the team.
Are you ready to launch your teaching career with an organization that values your growth and passion? Apply today to become an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Pioneer Square! This is your chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young children while working in a supportive, innovative environment. We welcome you to bring your creativity, enthusiasm, and heart to our school family. Join us, and together we'll inspire children's love of learning every single day. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of something special - we're excited to meet our next great teacher!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Work Location: In person