Assistant Teacher

Illinois Action for Children; Matteson (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on Bonus

Job summary

Illinois Action for Children seeks a Rock Star Teacher Assistant to empower students, support families, and strengthen communities where children come first. You’ll foster a love of learning and collaborate with teachers, parents, and community partners to ensure every child thrives.

Joining IAFC means commitment to credentials, ongoing development, and a comprehensive benefits package. Starting salary is competitive with a supportive, mission-driven culture that values growth and impact.

Qualifications

• CDA credential or associate degree required.
• Must obtain ISBE Paraprofessional Certificate within 30 days of hire (paid by IAFC).
• Must hold or obtain Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Credential Level 4 within six months of hire.
• Coursework or training relevant to teaching infants and toddlers.
• Six months to one year teaching or related experience.
• Background check clearance is required.

Responsibilities

• Ignite a love of learning that empowers students to dream big, think critically, and grow as individuals.
• Support families by collaborating with parents and caregivers to meet children’s needs.
• Build communities by working with educators, community leaders, and families to create a network of support.
• Create impact by fostering belonging, resilience, and pride in every child and family.

Skills

Teaching experience

Background check

Education

CDA credential

ISBE Paraprofessional Certificate

Gateways to Opportunity ECE Credential Level 4

Coursework in Infant/Toddler Education

Job description

We're Looking for a Rock Star Teacher Assistant!

Are you ready to make a real difference? We’re on the lookout for extraordinary Teacher Assistants who’s not just passionate about education, but is also deeply committed to building strong, connected families and powerful communities where children truly come first. This is more than just a job - it’s a mission.

Why You'll Love Working With Us

• Make a REAL Impact: This isn't your average job. You're shaping the future by empowering students, supporting families, and building a stronger community where children come first
• Flexible & Supportive Environment: We prioritize work-life balance and believe in creating a work atmosphere where you can grow and thrive.
• Professional Growth: We invest in your development! With continuous learning opportunities, you’ll grow your skills and passion while making a meaningful difference.
• Collaborative Team: Work with a supportive, like-minded group of educators and community partners who share your vision for a better future.
• Be Part of Something Bigger: This is not just a job - it’s a movement to transform communities and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
• Sign-on Bonus - $1,500 Hiring Bonus for external candidates (50% after 90 days of employment and 50% after one year of employment)

We offer an extensive benefits package that adds value to your total compensation. Our benefits include:

• Health, dental and vision insurance plans with company contribution of 95% for single coverage
• 401k with company match
• Generous PTO - first year - 23 days, the second year - 28 days, the third year and on - 35 days
• 11 Paid Holidays and 1 Floating Holiday
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Account
• Company Paid STD & LTD Insurance
• Company Paid Life Insurance

Your Mission, Should You Choose To Accept It

• Ignite the Spark: Foster a love of learning that empowers students to dream big, think critically, and grow as individuals.
• Support Families: Collaborate with parents and caregivers to create a supportive environment where children’s needs are met both inside and outside the classroom.
• Build Communities: Work alongside fellow educators, community leaders, and families to build a network of support that uplifts and strengthens the whole community.
• Create Impact: Use your teaching to cultivate not just academic success, but a sense of belonging, resilience, and pride in every child and family.

What We're Looking For

• Passion & Heart: You genuinely care about students, families, and the community.
• Creative Teaching: You think outside the box and bring fresh ideas into the classroom.
• Team Player: You collaborate and communicate with others, from students to families to community partners.
• Adaptable Spirit: You embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and impact.

Credentials Required

• CDA (Child Development Associate) credential or associate degree REQUIRED
• Must obtain ISBE Paraprofessional Certificate within 30 days of hire (paid for by IAFC).
• Must hold or obtain Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Credential Level 4 (within six months of hire)
• Coursework or training relevant to teaching infants and toddlers
• Six months to one year teaching or related experience
• Background Check: Safety is important - successful candidates will undergo a background screening.

How This Aligns With Our Mission

At our core, we’re all about catalyzing change by developing strong families and powerful communities. As a Teacher Assistant with us, you’ll play a pivotal role in this mission by shaping the minds of the next generation while also being a positive force in the lives of their families. You’re not just teaching—you’re helping to create a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities where children truly matter most.

While we desire for this job posting to be comprehensive, all aspects of the position may be amended at any time at the discretion of IAFC including job duties, work location and/or work schedule.

Starting salary $39,800 - minimum, based on experience. IL Action for Children is EEO/M/F/V/D employer.