Teacher Aide

Job Title: Teacher Aide

Report to: Director of Early Childhood Education

Compensation: $35,000 to $37,440 Annually

Status: Full time (Monday thru Friday 8:30am to 5pm, Year-round)

Location: Chicago, IL

Northwestern Settlement is a dynamic and innovative leader in creating transformation opportunities for children and families to disrupt generational poverty. All programs nurture, educate and inspire so that families can take personal responsibility for their futures and attain self-sufficiency and reach aspirations. Our Early Childhood Education program is looking for a dedicated and compassionate Teacher's Aide to assist in providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children. The ideal candidate will have a passion for supporting early learning and the development of children aged 3-5 years old. As a Teacher's Aide, you will work closely with the lead teacher to support daily classroom activities, assist with educational activities, and ensure each child’s needs are met in a positive and inclusive environment that follows the Head Start Program Performance Standards, NAEYC Standards, and that of our Community Partnership CPS.

Responsibilities:

• Assist the lead teacher in preparing and implementing age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Provide individualized attention and support to children, helping them with tasks such as learning materials, social interaction, and classroom routines.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
• Monitor children during classroom activities, outdoor play, and lunch/snack times.
• Support children’s social and emotional development by encouraging positive behaviors and helping resolve conflicts.
• Maintain accurate records of children’s progress, including observing and documenting developmental milestones.
• Assist with classroom management, including helping children stay on task and engaged in activities.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences, meetings, and other staff development activities as needed.
• Help with classroom setup and cleanup before and after each session.
• Communicate effectively with teachers, staff, and parents regarding children’s needs, progress, and any concerns.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• Previous experience working with young children in a daycare, preschool, or other educational setting is highly preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• A nurturing, patient, and flexible approach when working with children.
• Ability to follow directions and take initiative when needed.
• Knowledge of child development and early childhood education principles.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or the ability to obtain within the first 3 months of employment).
• Background check and fingerprinting required.

Compensation & Benefits:

Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. We offer a robust health benefits package. In addition, all staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including a dedicated workspace, laptop, email, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.

Statement of Non-Discrimination:

Northwestern Settlement is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.

******To ensure a good fit, we kindly ask that only serious and qualified candidates apply.*****