What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Toddler Educator position at The Children's Center?
Assistant Toddler (18 months-3 years) Educator (Full-Time, M–F 9:30–5:30)
Join a nature-based, collaborative, Reggio-inspired team where children lead the learning and educators are valued, supported, and celebrated.
The Children’s Center (TCC) is a vibrant, play-filled early childhood program in Portland, Maine serving infants through Pre-K. Our teaching teams are known for their warmth, professionalism, and deep commitment to child-led exploration. We believe children learn best when they are respected, trusted, and given rich opportunities to explore the world—both indoors and outdoors—all year long.
We are seeking a full-time Assistant Educator to join our toddler teaching team (Monday–Friday, 9:30am–5:30pm). In this role, you will work alongside two experienced Co-Lead Educators, supporting children as they grow their independence, confidence, and sense of wonder.
Why Work at The Children’s Center?
At TCC, we invest in YOU. Full-time educators receive:
Competitive & Comprehensive Benefits
- Health insurance for 35 hours/week
- Dental insurance, life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability insurance (40 hours/week)
- 4% employer 401k match
- 12 paid holidays, including:
- Week of July 4th
- The full week between Christmas & New Year'sApril vacation weekPaid time off for all TCC closures
- Paid professional development (30 hours 10 hours PGP annually)
- Supportive onboarding, mentorship, and training
- A deeply collaborative culture rooted in respect and growth
About the Role
The Assistant Educator is a vital member of our teaching team. You will:
- Support classroom routines, curriculum, and daily rhythms
- Help create a warm, safe, and developmentally rich environment
- Assist with transitions, meals, diapering/toileting, and active supervision
- Gather observations for documentation and curriculum planning
- Build relationships with children and families through daily interactions
- Participate in team collaboration, classroom upkeep, and problem-solving
- Step in for short-term lead responsibilities when needed
- Embrace our emergent, nature-based, Reggio-inspired approach
This is a hands-on, active role that involves getting down on the ground, moving throughout our indoor/outdoor environments, lifting up to 25–55 lbs, and fully engaging with curious, energetic toddlers.
Who We’re Looking For
You may be a great fit if you:
- Love working with toddlers and understand the importance of co-regulation and responsive care
- Thrive in a collaborative team environment
- Are curious, reflective, flexible, and open to learning
- Enjoy spending time outdoors in all kinds of weather
- Communicate warmly and professionally with children, families, and coworkers
- Want to grow in the early childhood field and contribute to a high-quality program
Minimum Requirements
- High school diploma required
- 1 year experience in ECE or similar setting
- DHHS fingerprinting and background check
- CPR/First Aid within the first 30 days
- 6-hour Safety Training within first 3 months
- Ability to perform active supervision and meet physical demands of the role
Schedule
Monday–Friday 9:30am–5:30pm
Full-time, year-round.
Ready to Join a Thoughtful, Joyful, Child-Centered Teaching Community?
We would love to meet you.
Apply with your resume and a brief note sharing why you’re interested in working with toddlers and what excites you about joining our mission-driven team.
Pay: $19.00 - $20.80 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19 - $21