Early Head Start Classroom Assistant

EPIC Early Learning is currently seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Early Head Start Classroom Assistant to join our team. As a private, nonprofit organization, EPIC has been providing early childhood educational services to children and families in Central Washington for over 35 years. Our mission is to empower children to reach their full potential through nurturing relationships, engaging experiences, and high-quality education.

The Early Head Start Classroom Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment for infants and toddlers. You will work closely with the teacher and other classroom staff to provide developmentally appropriate care and education.

At EPIC Early Learning, we believe that every child is unique and deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are committed to providing high-quality education that nurtures the whole child and prepares them for future success.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans and daily routines that promote the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of infants and toddlers
• Provide individualized care and support to meet the unique needs of each child
• Support a warm, responsive, and nurturing relationship with each child
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher, Family Advocate, parents, and families to build strong partnerships and involve them in their child's learning and development
• Assist in observing and documenting children's behaviors, development, and progress
• Help maintain a safe and clean environment that meets health and safety standards
• Assist in implementing daily routines, such as feeding, diapering, and nap times
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• Be committed to characterizing a culture of safety within our centers, playgrounds, buses, and anywhere that children may be present. Be familiar with and encourage EPICs culture of "See Something, Say Something".

Requirements

• AA, BA, or advanced degree in Early Childhood Education or Development, or in a related field *
• Childcare Basics 30 hours STARS training or willingness to complete
• Experience working with infants and toddlers in a childcare setting preferred
• Basic understanding of child development principles and best practices in early childhood education
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with children, families, and colleagues
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Passionate about providing high-quality care and education to infants and toddlers
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, including lifting and carrying infants and toddlers
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant educational technology

* Candidates who do not meet the minimum education requirement would need to enroll in a higher education institution towards an AA in ECE, be on a Professional Development Plan with a confirmed deadline. 

Pay Level: $19.01 to $22.43 per Hour (Year-round position)

Benefits

·         Medical/Dental/ Vision Plans

·         Sick Leave (5 hours per payroll)

·         Paid Annual Leave (4 hours per payroll)

·         Paid Holidays (11)

·         Seedling Scholarship Available

·         Employee Assistance Program

·         Basic Life Insurance

·         403 B (Employer match after 1 year or 1,000 hours)

Conditions of Employment:

1. Prior to employment, complete a pre-employment drug screen, Tb skin test by an EPIC approved healthcare provider at no cost to the employee.
2. Pre-employment basic physical by an EPIC healthcare provider (obtain within (30) days of employment and no cost to the employee).
3. Must pass an initial and periodic background check through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF).
4. Provide proof of MMR vaccination and/ or resistance to Measles, Mumps & Rubella.
5. Current Food Handlers card (obtain the training within 30 days of employment).
6. Current First Aid/CPR card (obtain within thirty 30 days of employment).
7. Complete Childcare Basics 30 hours STARS training within 3 months of hire
8. Meet the minimum education requirements within the timeframe as stated in the performance standards.
9. Complete Child Abuse and Neglect training and all other mandated training.
10. CEO Approval.