Toddler Classroom Assistant

Discovery Developmental Center

Are you looking for a fulfilling and fun new work experience in the new year?! Discovery Developmental Center is looking for caring and curious individuals who love young children and thrive in creative and fast-paced learning environments to join our team. Our passionate, creative, and nurturing staff believe in the power of play, positive relationships, and family partnerships to create environments that support ALL children.

As a nationally-accredited program, we have high expectations of our staff. As a staff member, you will be part of a reputable and trusted organization that has provided the highest standard of childcare for over 30 years. Discovery focuses on life-long learning not only for young children, but for the people who care for them as well. Our collaborative team approach helps ensures that all staff feel valued and supported. We provide mentoring and regular check-ins so our team can confidently deliver the high quality of care that families have come to expect. Child care assistants aid and support all classroom teachers in planning and providing for the social, emotional, physical, and educational needs of the children enrolled at the center. This includes the following:

· Setting up environments that encourage development across all domains (e.g., language, cognition, creative expression, etc.)

· Planning and aiding with small/large group activities

· Modeling and encouraging social skills (e.g., taking turns, joining in play, sharing)

· Encouraging independence with self-help skills (e.g., picking up after themselves, wiping up spills, personal care tasks, proper use of materials)

· Providing help with physical needs, such as toileting, diapering, dressing, washing hands

· Understanding children’s individual needs and learning goals, especially for those children with special needs.

· Maintaining friendly and professional communication with families and staff.

· Participating in mealtimes with children (e.g., modeling family-style serving and polite table manners) and assisting with preparation and clean-up as necessary.

· Attending and participating in monthly staff meetings and other professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform Essential Duties and Responsibilities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Education / Experience

Experience in a licensed child care setting preferred. Will train the right person. College coursework a plus!

• Professional Memberships

Must have account with Montana Early Childhood Project and be registered on the state Practitioner Registry within first 30 days of hire.

• Interpersonal / Communication Skills

Working in a team-oriented environment needs good oral and written communication skills, effective interpersonal and negotiating skills, and flexibility with regards to scheduling changes and program improvements.

• Technical Skills

Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and creation of files, digital photography, use of email and attachments, and use of Internet is helpful.

• Physical Demands

Need ability to lift 20-40 pounds intermittently throughout workday. Should be able to bend, squat, kneel, or sit on floor as needed during interactions with children.

Daily outdoor playground supervision can be expected during all seasons and conditions except for pouring rain and below zero temperatures.

Licensing / QRIS Requirements
State child care regulations require all staff to have:

• Current immunizations, including but not limited to MMR and/or Rubella immunity and Pertussis / Tetanus (DtaP). Hepatitis A & B are recommended, but not required
• Release of Information for background checks and Department of Motor Vehicle records. Fingerprinting is also required.
• Current Adult, Infant, Child CPR and Pediatric First Aid certificate and Infant Safety Essentials on-line course within first 30 days of employment.
• Minimum of 11 hours of Montana-approved Orientation training completed within first 90 days of employment.
• Ongoing professional development coursework required by STARS.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $15.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you current on the Montana Practitioner Registry?
• What kinds of activities do you like to do with children?
• What experiences do you have working with young children? What ages have you worked with?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Pediatric First Aid & CPR card (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $18