Assistant Educator

Sonnet Montessori; Waukee (IA); On-site; USD 19,286 - 22,041; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing Professional Development

401(k) Plan

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Employee Childcare Discount

Job summary

Sonnet Montessori in Waukee, Iowa, seeks an Assistant Teacher to support the Lead Teacher in creating a safe and engaging learning environment for children. This role includes implementing classroom routines, supervising children, and fostering their independence while ensuring a nurturing, collaborative atmosphere.

The ideal candidate has a high school diploma and is passionate about early childhood education. Sonnet Montessori offers professional development, health insurance, and a supportive community dedicated to children's growth.

Qualifications

• Ability to pass a background check is required.
• Pediatric CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 90 days).
• Experience working with young children preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing classroom routines and lesson plans.
• Supervise children at all times, maintaining required ratios.
• Support children’s caregiving needs including feeding and diapering.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Professionalism

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job 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 Teacher role supports the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. Guided by the Lead Teacher, Director, and Administration, you will 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 Teacher 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 Teacher 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 per hour and applies to candidates working in Iowa. This range may be adjusted for other geographic locations based on education, experience, internal equity, market demand, and other qualifying criteria.

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