Assistant Educator

Sonnetschool; Waukee (IA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) Plan

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays

Employee Childcare Discount

Professional Development & Growth

Job summary

Sonnet Montessori in Iowa (Waukee) is seeking an Assistant Educator to support the Lead Educator in creating a safe, nurturing classroom where children can thrive. You’ll participate in daily routines, supervise children, and assist with caregiving, meals, circle time, and outdoor activities.

You'll document observations through the parent app, collaborate with a supportive team, and help maintain a clean, organized environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Ability to pass a background check is required.
• CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 90 days).
• Experience working with young children is preferred.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and supervise children indoors/outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Educator in implementing classroom routines, activities, and lesson plans.
• Supervise children at all times (within sight and hearing), maintaining required ratios.
• Support children’s caregiving needs including feeding, diapering/toileting, and medication administration as needed.
• Encourage children’s independence, self-confidence, problem-solving, and responsibility.
• Interact with children daily through circle time, free play, meals, outdoor play, and structured activities.
• Use the parent communication app to document children’s needs, observations, and milestones.
• Assist in maintaining a safe, clean, and organized classroom and school environment.
• Work as part of a collaborative team, supporting co-workers and maintaining professionalism under stress.
• Report accidents, incidents, or suspected child abuse immediately in accordance with state law and school policies.
• Communicate warmly with families during drop-off and pick-up, directing specific questions to the Lead Educator or Director.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Calm under stress

Physical ability to lift 50 lbs

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Description

At Sonnet Montessori, we’re on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you’re energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you’ll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.

The Assistant Educator role supports the Lead Educator in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. Guided by the Lead Educator, Director, and Administration, they play an active role in daily classroom activities, caregiving routines, and fostering children’s independence and growth. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about early childhood education, enjoy teamwork, and want to make a positive impact in children’s lives.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist the Lead Educator in implementing classroom routines, activities, and lesson plans.
• Supervise children at all times (within sight and hearing), maintaining required ratios.
• Support children’s caregiving needs including feeding, diapering/toileting, and medication administration as needed.
• Encourage children’s independence, self-confidence, problem-solving, and responsibility.
• Interact with children daily through circle time, free play, meals, outdoor play, and structured activities.
• Use the parent communication app to help document children’s needs, observations, and milestones.
• Assist in maintaining a safe, clean, and organized classroom and school environment.
• Work as part of a collaborative team, supporting co-workers and maintaining professionalism under stress.
• Report accidents, incidents, or suspected child abuse immediately in accordance with state law and school policies.
• Communicate warmly with families during drop-off and pick-up, while directing specific questions to the Lead Educator
• or Director.

What You’ll Need:

• High school diploma or GED (required).
• Ability to pass a background check (required).
• Pediatric CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 90 days).
• Experience working with young children (preferred).
• Physical ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs., sit on the floor, kneel, and actively supervise children indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Strong communication skills, professionalism, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Calm, patient demeanor with the ability to remain collected under stress.

What We Offer:

• Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities
• 401(k) Plan
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Employee Childcare Discount

The starting pay range for this position is $14 to $16 hourly and is applicable for candidates who will be working in the following location[s] Iowa. This range is subject to adjustment for other geographic work locations. In addition to geographic location, Sonnet Montessori considers education, experience, internal equity, market demands, and other qualifying criteria to determine starting wages.

In addition to compensation benefits, Sonnet Montessori offers a variety of health and welfare benefits, based on eligibility, including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and career development.