Assistant Teacher

About the Role

Partner with the Lead Teacher in carrying out the curriculum, plans, and daily activities in an inclusive early childhood environment.

Responsibilities

• Create a positive and welcoming environment for children and families.
• Assist in the implementation and development of a variety of daily activities that are developmentally appropriate for the children served.
• Work with children on developmentally appropriate goals and individualize activities as needed.
• Assist in maintaining documentation as directed.
• Follow positive discipline procedures as directed.
• Assist in maintaining equipment, toys, and materials in a clean, safe, organized, and accessible order.
• Follow confidentiality standards regarding students and their families.
• Refer parent questions, comments, and/or concerns to the Lead Teacher, Coordinator, or Director/Asst. Director as needed.
• Treat children, parents, and staff with respect.
• Maintain a harmonious working relationship.
• Participate in required continuing education annually, including in-service days (required attendance) and potential evening or weekend training opportunities.

Core Values & Ethical Conduct

• Consistently model core values of Accountability, Community Impact, Compassion, Trustworthiness, and Teamwork.
• Interact with staff, clients, management, community partners, and funders in a respectful and professional manner.
• Create and embrace new ideas and utilize creative problem-solving to improve services and delivery methods.
• Be wise, accountable, and careful with the use of resources and time.
• Conduct oneself with honesty, reliability, and fairness, adhering to our code of ethics.

Requirements

• Must have a HS Diploma/GED with either a TCC Certificate or Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. An Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Child & Family Studies, or another related field is preferred.
• At least one year of experience working with the birth to five-year-old population, with a thorough understanding of developmentally appropriate practices and procedures.
• Previous experience working or volunteering with children or adults with special needs is strongly recommended.
• Must be at least 21 years of age and have proof of eligibility to work in the USA.
• Prior to employment, must complete a health form with TB Skin Test and pass a criminal background check via TBI fingerprinting, including checks of TN’s registries (sexual offender, neglect/abuse, meth offender, felon registry, etc.).

Nature of Work

Hours of work and schedules are determined by the Director of the Chattanooga Children’s Program on an annual basis, based on program needs.

• Provide comprehensive care for Infants/Toddlers/Preschoolers in an educational setting.
• This is a physical job that requires frequently lifting up to 25 lbs, getting up and down from the floor, and occasionally running after children.
• Staff is required to participate with children in an outdoor environment each day that weather permits.

Benefits

• A competitive benefits package including health, vision, and dental coverage, HSA, Dependent Care FSA, group life insurance, Teladoc (telemedicine), EAP mental health resources, and short & long-term disability options.
• Up to 4% matching 401(k) employer contribution, plus a 3% base contribution.
• Generous paid time off to support work-life balance.
• Employee discounts on paid services.

About Us

Signal Centers believes in supporting employees and their families throughout life. Our culture emphasizes creating a sense of belonging where everyone has what they need to succeed and thrive, including investing in the next generation of leaders. Join us in our mission to create a community of lifelong independence, where your contributions are valued and professional growth is nurtured.