Early Childhood Assistant

Early Childhood Assistant

The Early Childhood Assistant provides high-quality childcare services for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years in a safe, nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment. Working collaboratively with the Early Childhood Facilitator, Supervisor and childcare team, this position supports daily classroom operations, implements planned activities and promotes children's social, emotional and cognitive development.

The Early Childhood Assistant plays an essential role in maintaining a positive, engaging environment where children can learn, explore and grow while ensuring their health, safety and individual needs are met.

Responsibilities Include:

• Assisting with the implementation of developmentally appropriate lesson plans, educational activities and creative play
• Providing attentive, compassionate care and supervision for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years
• Supporting children's social-emotional development, positive self-concept, cooperative play and empathy
• Assisting with daily routines, including meals, diapering, toileting, handwashing, rest periods and outdoor activities
• Maintaining a clean, safe and organized environment through regular sanitation of toys, equipment and classroom spaces
• Observing children's interests, needs and developmental progress and communicating observations to the Early Childhood Facilitator and Supervisor
• Supporting children's health and wellness while following established safety procedures, childcare regulations and mandatory reporting requirements
• Collaborating with childcare staff to ensure consistency in daily routines, classroom activities and quality of care
• Communicating respectfully and effectively with children, families and colleagues
• Promoting a positive, inclusive and team-oriented environment in alignment with the values of Wallowa County Health Care District

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Experience working in a certified Child Care Center or Certified Family Child Care Home preferred
• Must be eligible for enrollment in the Oregon Registry and Central Background
• Must meet initial training requirements established by the Oregon Child Care Licensing Division
• Must maintain required continuing education and certifications in accordance with childcare licensing requirements
• Demonstrated competence, sound judgment, patience and self-control when working with children
• Ability to provide compassionate, attentive care while supporting children's individual developmental needs
• Strong communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills
• Ability to meet the physical, mental and functional requirements outlined in the job description
• Must successfully pass a criminal background check, drug screen and reference checks

EEOC/ACCOMMODATION STATEMENT:

Wallowa County Health Care District is a drug and alcohol-free workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of background and drug screenings. Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruitment process are encouraged to contact the Human Resources Department for assistance.