Associate Teacher

About Us Peninsula Family Service (PFS) is a nonprofit organization that provides children, families, and older adults with the support and tools they need to realize their full potential. As one of the largest providers of infant, toddler, and preschool programs in the region, PFS also delivers services in financial empowerment, employment, and older adult support—ensuring that people at every stage of life have access to opportunities to thrive. Established in 1950, PFS has been a trusted community partner for over 75 years, dedicated to fostering stability, resilience, and well‑being for the individuals and families it serves. Description At PFS, our values guide how we serve our community and work together as a team. We expect every team member to demonstrate ownership, proactive engagement, and a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. These values are grounded in a shared dedication to community, service, and collaborative teamwork. Job Summary The Teacher Aide is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate, and inclusive learning environment for children aged 3 months to 5 years of age; if supporting school age, the role works with children up to 12 years of age. The Teacher Aide supports a comprehensive early‑childhood environment that promotes children’s social‑emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development, while supporting family engagement and meeting state and federal regulations. Reporting & Classification Reports To: Site Manager Job Classification: Non‑Exempt Essential Duties and Responsibilities Curriculum & Instruction Support implementation of daily activities. Prepare materials. Support lesson plans and interactions for planned activities. Document observations of children and their activities. Support children’s self‑help skills, independence, and problem‑solving abilities. Incorporate early STEM, literacy, and social‑emotional learning strategies into the classroom experience. Health & Safety Ensure constant and active supervision of all children. Respond promptly to children’s needs, following individualized care routines if applicable. Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom that meets licensing, California Department of Social Services, and Head Start health and safety standards. Follow sanitation, diapering, toileting, and nutrition guidelines. Monitor children’s health checks daily and document concerns. Assessment & Documentation Complete ongoing observations. Maintain accurate and timely incident reports and child portfolios (Learning‑Genie). Participate in data‑driven planning for children and program outcomes. Family & Community Engagement Establish positive, respectful relationships with families. Conduct parent‑teacher conferences and at least two home visits per program year. Share developmental progress, resources, and strategies with families to support learning at home. Encourage family participation in classroom and program activities. Collaboration and Professionalism Work collaboratively with teaching staff, Family Coordinators, and specialists to support children’s Individualized Family Service Plans or other identified needs. Participate in 21 hours of professional development and annual required training. Maintain confidentiality and follow all agency policies, licensing regulations, and Early Head Start performance standards. Requirements Education/Experience Minimum of 6–12 ECE/CD units with three units in infant/toddler development if working with that specific age group. Preferred but not required one year of experience working with children in a licensed childcare facility. Special Requirements Work toward an Associate Teacher or higher permit (or eligible to obtain one). Current Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification. Ability to pass background checks, TB tests, and meet immunization requirements. Bilingual skills desired (English/Spanish). Physical Demands & Work Environment Reach a child twenty‑five feet away within 10 seconds or less. Hear a child call for help from at least fifty feet away. Comprehend and react to dangerous situations involving children without hesitation. Crouch/bend to a child’s height and maintain eye contact. Reach children on the highest piece of play equipment. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Engage in floor/sitting at ground level play with children for extended periods. Exposure to a childcare classroom indoor/outdoor setting, cleaning, disinfectant supplies, and noise levels consistent with working with young children. Other Requirements Prior to first day of employment, must have fingerprint clearance and maintain clearance. Verification to legally work in the US and update as required. #J-18808-Ljbffr Peninsula Family Service