Teaching Support Staff

About the role

ChildRoots, a small family of locally and woman-owned childcare centers in Portland, Oregon, is seeking Teaching Support Staff members for our Southeast location. Since 2007, our progressive, play-based schools have focused on guiding children's social and emotional development while encouraging exploration and inquiry. Our awe-inspiring classrooms are designed to provoke curiosity, but it is our teachers who make ChildRoots truly outstanding.

Responsibilities

• Provide care and educational support for the students.
• Foster a safe, engaging, and child-centered learning environment.
• Design and implement developmentally appropriate activities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, ensuring clear and supportive communication.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and contribute to a positive workplace culture.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Be a Step 4 or higher in the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) system
• Be currently enrolled in Oregon's Central Background Registry (or begin the process and complete it upon receiving confirmation)
• At least 2 years of experience in an ECE classroom setting
• Meet the teacher-qualification criteria as outlined by the Office of Child Care requirements, which may include:
• Previous experience in a structured childcare environment.
• Completion of college-level courses in early childhood education-related subjects.
• Degree in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent) preferred.
• Complete Oregon’s Safety Set Trainings and required certifications:
• Pediatric CPR/First Aid Course (hybrid or fully in-person)
• Oregon Food Handler's Card (online course)
• Introduction to Child Care Health & Safety (online course)
• Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect (online course)
• Prevention is Better than Treatment (online course)
• Safe Sleep for Oregon's Infants (online course)

Our Work Culture

We believe that children are authentic, powerful individuals. Our mission is to guide their social and emotional development and to foster a sense of wonder about the world around them. We know that teaching is more than just meeting physical needs—it is about understanding each child’s unique experience and supporting them on their journey.

We also understand that a successful school depends on supported, valued educators. Our workplace culture emphasizes stability, emotional support, and a collaborative environment where every teacher is seen and appreciated.

Join Our Team!

To work with us, you must be teacher-qualified and currently enrolled in Oregon's Central Background Registry.

These easy, online trainings are required within 30 days of hire:

• Pediatric CPR/First Aid Course
• Oregon Food Handler's Card
• Introduction to Child Care Health & Safety online course
• Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect online course
• Prevention is Better than Treatment online course
• Safe Sleep for Oregon's Infants online course

Pay & Benefits

Support start at $23.16/hour, regardless of experience or education.

Receive:

• Standardized annual merit-based raises and annual PFA wage adjustments
• Long-term commitment bonuses to incentivize teachers to remain with their cohort
• ✅ Health & Vision Insurance – majority employer-paid
• ✅ Dental Insurance – majority employer-paid
• ✅ Life Insurance – 100% employer-paid
• ✅ 401(k) Retirement Plan – Generous company match
• ✅ Paid Time Off – Including holidays, a weeklong Winter Break, and professional development opportunities