What are the responsibilities and job description for the Teacher Aide - Early Head Start position at GOODWILL IND OF THE CHESAPEAKE INC?
Teacher Aide
$17.89-$22.36
Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake is seeking an Early Head Start Infant & Toddler Teacher to work in partnership with families and support the healthy development of children from birth through age three.
This position delivers high‑quality early learning experiences in a supportive, nurturing classroom or home‑based environment. The role promotes children’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth while meeting federal Head Start Performance Standards, Maryland licensing regulations, and organizational policies.
About the Role
In this role, you will have a meaningful impact on children’s earliest learning experiences while fostering strong, collaborative relationships with families. You’ll work alongside parents, colleagues, and community partners to ensure individualized, developmentally appropriate care and education for every child.
Success in this position requires a commitment to early childhood education, family‑centered practice, and responsive, individualized learning approaches.
Key Responsibilities
Child Development & Classroom Activities
- Create and maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming learning environment for infants and toddlers
- Plan and implement daily and weekly lesson plans aligned with MSDE and Head Start standards
- Conduct developmental screenings and ongoing observations
- Support individualized learning through Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs)
- Supervise children during classroom routines and outdoor play
- Support daily care routines including diapering, toileting, handwashing, teeth brushing, and meals
Health, Safety & Documentation
- Complete daily health and safety checks and conduct routine fire drills
- Document injuries, incidents, and hazards according to program requirements
- Maintain accurate attendance records, CACFP meal counts, and classroom inventories
- Enter observations and child progress data into Teaching Strategies GOLD or MyHeadStart
- Maintain organized, compliant child and family files
Family Engagement & Support
- Conduct home visits and parent‑teacher conferences
- Encourage family participation in classroom and program activities
- Provide families with guidance and resources related to child development, nutrition, safety, and positive discipline
- Connect families with community resources and service providers
Program & Team Collaboration
- Participate in staff meetings, supervision, case reviews, and required trainings
- Support recruitment, enrollment, and community outreach efforts
- Assist with extended‑day services to meet Early Head Start grant requirements
- Coordinate family‑centered activities, events, and engagement opportunities
Schedule & Program Hours
- Program operates Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
- Standard workday is 7.5 hours, with flexible scheduling based on program needs
- Extended hours coverage may be required depending on enrollment and attendance
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED required
- Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred
- At least one year of supervised classroom experience with children ages birth–three
Certifications (Required or Within 90 Days of Hire)
- 45‑Hour Infant & Toddler Certificate
- 90‑Hour Child Care Certificate
- Infant‑Toddler CDA
- Infant/Toddler CPR & First Aid
- Universal Precautions
Preferred:
- 9‑Hour Communication Certificate
- Valid Maryland driver’s license with required insurance
Additional Employment Requirements
- Early Head Start CJIS criminal background clearance
- Pre‑employment physical and tuberculosis screening
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong interest in infant and toddler development
- Ability to build positive, respectful relationships with families
- Culturally responsive and non‑judgmental communication style
- Strong documentation, organization, and time‑management skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and meet program deadlines
- Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development
Physical Requirements
- Medium physical demand
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and frequently lift up to 25 lbs.
- Regular standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and floor‑level interaction with children
Travel Requirements
- Up to 25% travel within Goodwill’s service area
- Weekly and as‑needed home visits
- Personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursed)
Work Environment
- Moderate noise level
- Exposure to typical classroom, outdoor, and community‑based conditions
Why Work at Goodwill?
- Mission‑driven work supporting children and families
- Stable, federally funded programming
- Professional growth and credential development
- Comprehensive benefits package
👉 Learn more about our benefits and careers:
https://goodwillches.org/about-us/goodwill-careers/
EOE – Including Disability/Veterans
Salary : $18 - $22