Associate Teacher Infants/1s

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

The Associate Teacher is responsible for cultivating a warm, nurturing, and inspiring environment where infants are viewed as capable, curious, and active participants in their own learning. Guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the associate teacher will work alongside the lead teacher to create meaningful opportunities for exploration, discovery, and connection while honoring each child's unique rhythms, interests, and emerging strengths.

As a founding member of our faculty, the associate teacher will work alongside the lead teacher and TCS team to shape the culture and identity of our infant program. We are seeking educators who are collaborative, reflective, and genuinely excited by the opportunity to help build something new. A program rooted in relationships, inquiry, and a deep respect for children.

What You'll Do

• Support the lead teacher to create a safe, nurturing, and emotionally responsive classroom where infants feel secure and valued.
• Work alongside the lead teacher in observing children's interests and developmental milestones to support meaningful learning experiences.
• View the environment as an active participant in children's learning, carefully selecting natural, open-ended materials that encourage inquiry.
• Practice safe sleep procedures in accordance with state licensing regulations and best practices.
• Support the lead teacher in developing individualized care during feeding, diapering, sleeping, and transitions while maintaining open communication with families.
• Assist in maintaining accurate daily records of meals, bottles, diapering, and naps.
• Ensure each classroom meets state licensing requirements, food allergy management, sanitation guidelines and emergency procedures as outlined by the OEC.
• Mentor and collaborate with the lead teacher to ensure consistency in caregiving and educational practices.
• Reflect on own teaching practice; develop and work toward goals.

Requirements

• Minimum of three - five years of experience working with infants in a licensed early childhood program.
• Previous associate teaching experience.
• Strong understanding of infant development and responsive caregiving practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and comfortably meet the physical demands of caring for infants.
• Commitment to continuous learning and ongoing professional development, while maintaining up to date knowledge through relevant training and certifications.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Administration of Medication Training for Child Care.
• Experience in a Reggio Emilia-inspired, inquiry-based early childhood program.
• Experience with pedagogical documentation.
• Knowledge of infant observation and reflective practice.

Benefits

• Paid Leave
• Sick Leave
• Professional Development