Preschool Teacher Assistant

Position Summary

Collaborates with the teacher in providing a positive learning environment and curriculum that support 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.

Essential Functions

• 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

Education and Experience Requirements

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

• 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 certificate2 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 range is determined by factors such as relevant experience, skills, certifications, and internal equity.

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.