Playschool Assistant Teacher (Pre-K Classroom)
The Role
The Multnomah Athletic Club is seeking a warm, energetic, and professional Playschool Assistant Teacher to support our Pre-K classroom of up to 21 four-year-old children. Reporting to the Youth Programs Manager and working closely with the Playschool Lead Teacher, you'll help create a fun, safe, and enriching learning environment where children can grow, explore, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Our Playschool philosophy is rooted in respect for each child's unique development, fostering positive relationships, encouraging curiosity, and helping children build confidence through meaningful experiences and individual success.
Schedule
Must be available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This position is primarily part-time, with the potential to transition to full-time based on availability outside of scheduled classroom hours.
What You'll Do
- Assist the Lead Teacher in providing engaging learning experiences for children ages 4 years old by September 1.
- Prepare classroom materials, activities, and learning environments that support children's growth and development.
- Help maintain a warm, safe, caring, and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
- Supervise children and support their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
- Observe children's progress and communicate developmental milestones, behavioral concerns, or needs with the Lead Teacher.
- Maintain accurate attendance records and classroom documentation.
- Ensure classroom spaces remain clean, organized, and inviting.
- Lead by example while enforcing safety procedures and utilizing positive behavior guidance techniques.
- Build positive relationships with children, families, members, and fellow staff.
- Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
- Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and departmental functions.
- Complete ongoing professional development requirements, including 16 hours of continuing education annually through OAEYC or an equivalent program.
- Adhere to all MAC policies, procedures, and safety standards.
- Support a collaborative, customer-focused team environment throughout the Club.
What You'll Bring
- Associate degree in Early Childhood Education preferred, or a minimum of one year of experience as an Assistant Teacher in a preschool setting.
- CPR, First Aid, and Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect certifications, or the ability to obtain certifications within 90 days of hire.
- Strong judgment, professionalism, and self-control when working with children and families.
- A genuine passion for early childhood education and creating positive learning experiences.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with colleagues, members, and families.
- Ability to lift and carry children weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Reliable attendance and commitment to maintaining a safe, nurturing environment for children.
Why MAC Playschool?
We believe every child is unique and deserves opportunities to explore, discover, and succeed at their own pace. Through active learning, positive role modeling, and enriching experiences, we help children build confidence, curiosity, respect for others, and a lifelong love of learning. Many of our Assistant Teachers have successfully grown into Lead Teacher positions, making this a wonderful opportunity to develop your career in early childhood education.
What You'll Gain
- Full-time employees: Enjoy medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Facility access: Free access to our exercise room and classes, climbing gym, and pools.
- Convenience: Free parking and discounted public transportation passes.
- Retirement: Participate in our 401(k) program with an employer match.
- Well-being: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free.
- Perks: Enjoy discounts on club services and meals.