Preschool Teacher Assistant

About the role

Collaborates with the teacher in providing a positive learning environment and curriculum that supports children’s social, emotional, physical, language and cognitive development, consistent with Head Start Performance Standards, OCDC policies and procedures, USDA, CCD Licensing regulations and/or other applicable standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the classroom teacher in maintaining a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment
• Supervise children indoors and outdoors using positive guidance and behavior-management techniques
• Assist with classroom setup, organization, cleaning, and inventory of materials and supplies
• Support implementation of individualized curriculum and daily classroom activities
• Help balance teacher-directed and child-directed learning experiences
• Assist with observations, assessments, and maintaining children’s portfolios and documentation
• Communicate regularly with the teacher regarding children’s health, behavior, and development
• Support family engagement, including newsletters, conferences, and home visits
• Promote healthy practices related to nutrition, wellness, and child development
• Maintain confidentiality and follow all safety policies and procedures
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements

• High School Diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria with an Oregon Registry Step equal to or greater than 8 AND Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate within 6 months from date of hire
• Or one year Oregon community college certificate in field WITH training or coursework in early childhood development with a focus on preschool development within 1 year from date of hire
• Or enrolled in an associate’s or bachelor’s program in early childhood education or child development to be completed within 2 years from date of hire

PTA-E who meet the education requirements and are on Oregon Registry Step 7 or higher are paid at PG E5 starting on step A-1.

• Oregon Registry Step 8 or higher per certificate or college coursework pathway
• Oregon Registry Step 9 or higher per degree or college coursework pathway

Metro locations include Washington County and Multnomah County sites. Placement within the pay range is determined by factors such as relevant experience, skills, certifications, and internal equity.

Pay

Preschool Teacher Assistant CE – $20.95-$23.28 hourly ($23.05-$25.61 hourly in Metro locations).

Benefits

OCDC offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work–life balance. Eligible employees (20+ hours/week) may receive:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and paid leave programs
• Employer paid life and disability coverage, with voluntary options available
• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness resources
• Optional benefits including pet insurance

At OCDC, employee well-being is a priority and an essential part of supporting our mission and communities.