Early Childhood Education Teacher Aide I/II

Teacher Aides (Infant, Toddler & Preschool Classrooms) Stepping Stones Center for Early Learning – Florence, Oregon Full-Time | Monday–Friday (Shifts between 7:00am–6:00pm) $17–$19 per hour (based on experience, education, and completed trainings) Placement as Teacher Aide I or Teacher Aide II is determined by experience, education, and completed training. Join Our Founding Team Stepping Stones Center for Early Learning is opening September 2026 and is seeking three nurturing, dependable Teacher Aides to join our founding team. Stepping Stones builds upon years of experience serving families through our established home program and is expanding into a Certified Child Care Center to serve more children in our community. We are thoughtfully building a collaborative team of educators who value responsive caregiving, intentional practice, strong relationships, and high-quality early learning from the very beginning. We are currently hiring: 1 Infant Teacher Aide (0–24 months) 1 Toddler Teacher Aide (ages 2–3) 1 Preschool Teacher Aide (ages 3–5) When applying, please indicate which classroom you are most interested in supporting. This is an excellent opportunity to begin or grow a career in early childhood education. No prior child care experience is required — we provide training, mentorship, and support. About Our Program Stepping Stones is a relationship-based early learning program grounded in developmentally appropriate practice. We believe purposeful play and responsive teaching are powerful foundations for learning. Our classrooms prioritize: Social-emotional development and self-regulation Executive functioning skills Language and early literacy development Emerging independence Inclusive, individualized practices Strong partnerships with families We intentionally create environments where children feel safe, seen, and supported — and where educators feel valued and empowered. Core Responsibilities (All Classrooms) Teacher Aides support the Lead Teacher and Program Director in maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom. Responsibilities include: Supporting daily routines (meals, rest time, outdoor play, transitions) Maintaining active supervision and required staff-to-child ratios Assisting with developmentally appropriate learning experiences Supporting children’s social-emotional growth Maintaining a clean, organized, and engaging classroom environment Communicating respectfully with families and coworkers Following all Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care licensing rules Participating in required trainings and professional development Teacher Aides may float between classrooms as needed to support program operations. Age-Specific Classroom Focus Infant Teacher Aide (0–24 months) Provide nurturing, responsive care during feeding, diapering, and naps Support developmental milestones and sensory exploration Maintain high sanitation standards for bottles, toys, and materials Create a calm, predictable environment where babies feel secure Toddler Teacher Aide (2–3 years) Support developing independence and self-help skills Assist with diapering and early toileting routines Guide behavior using positive guidance and co-regulation strategies Encourage language growth and social interaction Curriculum Planning and Scaffolding Preschool Teacher Aide (3–5 years) Support structured learning centers and small group activities Encourage problem-solving, peer relationships, and early literacy/math skills Assist with classroom organization and project preparation Support kindergarten readiness through purposeful play and hands-on activities Curriculum Planning and Scaffolding Qualifications 18 years or older High school diploma or GED Enrolled (or willing to enroll) in Oregon’s Central Background Registry Ability to obtain Oregon Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification Willingness to enroll in the Oregon Registry Steps Program Passion for working with young children Reliable, patient, and collaborative Experience in early childhood education is welcome but not required. Support is provided for required certifications and enrollment processes. Compensation & Professional Growth At Stepping Stones, professional growth is valued and supported. We offer wage advancement opportunities through continued education, Oregon Registry progression, and expanded classroom leadership. Teacher Aide: $17–$19 per hour Paid/support for required trainings 1 week Paid Time Off per year Ongoing mentorship and professional development Clear pathways for advancement into teaching roles Opportunity to help build a high-quality program from the ground up External Workforce Support Early childhood educators in our region may be eligible for external workforce recognition and advancement awards offered by Siuslaw Childcare Friends. These awards are administered independently, subject to eligibility requirements, and paid directly to recipients. If this speaks to you If you are passionate about working with young children and want to be part of a thoughtful, relationship-driven early learning program, we invite you to apply. Apply through Indeed or email your resume to: Steppingstones.florence@gmail.com Learn more about our philosophy and team culture at: steppingstonescenterforearlylearning.my.canva.site/careers Stepping Stones Center for Early Learning is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour Benefits: Paid time off Professional development assistance Location: Florence, OR 97439 (Preferred) Ability to Commute: Florence, OR 97439 (Required) Work Location: In person