Assistant Teacher

George Mason University; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

George Mason University’s Child Development Center seeks an Assistant Teacher to support the classroom under the Lead Teacher. You will assist with daily routines, develop activities for children, and help maintain a clean, organized learning environment on site in Fairfax, VA.

The role emphasizes social-emotional development, collaboration with staff, and ongoing professional development. Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent, experience with young children, and knowledge

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience with young children in school or childcare.
• Knowledge of early childhood development.
• Skill working with young children, preferably in preschool.
• Approach all interactions with curiosity, respect and openness to diverse backgrounds.
• CDA Credential issued by Council for Professional Recognition or equivalent of at least 12 college credits required.

Responsibilities

• Supports Lead Teacher with social-emotional development of each child.
• Assists planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities aligned with Mason's CDC mission.
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of the classroom.
• Attends required staff trainings and completes annual in-service hours.

Skills

Child development knowledge

Experience with young children

Interpersonal communication

Diversity respect

Curriculum support

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CDA Credential / 12 college credits

Associate’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Department: Auxiliary and Business Services

Classification: Direct Svc Associate 1

Job Category: Classified Staff

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: On Site Required

Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Pay Band: 01

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Restricted: Yes

Criminal Background Check: Yes

Works with Minors check: Yes

About the Department

The George Mason University Child Development Center was established to support University faculty, staff and students by providing early care and education through an emergent, play-based preschool program. The staff of the CDC is committed to prioritizing the healthy development of each individual student within an environment that emphasizes whole food nutrition, social-emotional skills, and nature-based play. Our program celebrates the diverse cultures, languages, ethnicities, and family structures of our community.

About the Position

The Assistant Teacher (AT) supports the implementation of the overall program of their classroom. The AT adapts to the changing needs of the Lead Teacher and classroom, providing support to each developing child, daily routines, cleaning, planning/set-up, and organization. The AT is responsible for assuming management of the classroom in the absence of the Lead Teacher.

Responsibilities

• Supports Lead Teacher with social-emotional development of each child based on individual needs;
• Assists the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally-appropriate and engaging activities consistent with Masonâs CDC mission and philosophy;
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of the classroom; and
• Attends all required staff trainings; completes annual in-service hours/professional development.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent;
• Demonstrated experience working with young children in a school or childcare setting;
• Knowledge of early childhood development;
• Skill working with young children, preferably in a preschool setting;
• Approach all interactions with curiosity, respect, and openness to diverse perspectives and backgrounds; and
• Child Development Associate Credential issued by Council for Professional Recognition (CDA) or CDA Credential equivalent of at least 12 college credits in related education field required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in related field; and
• Training in Mandated Reporter, CPR/1st Aid, Medication Administration (MAT) preferred.

Posting Open Date

August 3, 2026

For Full Consideration, Apply by

August 14, 2026

Open Until Filled

Yes