Center Aide/Custodian

DOUGLASS COMMUNITY SERVICES INC; Macon (MO); On-site; USD 22,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance (free)

401(k)

Paid time off

Holidays

Inclement weather days

Tuition assistance

Professional development

Career growth

Job summary

Douglass Community Services is seeking a Facilities & Classroom Support Assistant to maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary environment across Head Start centers. You will assist with classroom activities, meal service, safety checks, and daily operations.

The role emphasizes adherence to sanitation standards, teamwork, and supporting children with diverse needs. Includes paid holidays, benefits, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or HiSET required.
• Knowledge of sanitation and cleaning procedures.
• Ability to follow Health Department regulations and Head Start standards.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• CPR/First Aid certification required or ability to obtain.
• Valid drivers license.
• Willing to enroll in CDA credential within 2 years of hire.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary classroom and center spaces.
• Perform routine and deep cleaning of classrooms and common areas.
• Assist with general building maintenance and report needs.
• Ensure playgrounds are safe and hazard-free.
• Support daily operations across classrooms, kitchens, dining areas, and offices.
• Provide coverage during staff breaks and assist with substitutions.
• Prepare materials and support daily classroom activities.
• Assist in meal setup, service, and cleanup.
• Model positive behavior and encourage healthy eating.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow program policies.
• Participate in training and required certifications.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Strong communication skills

Follow directions

Teamwork

Basic math skills

CPR/First Aid certification

Valid drivers license

CDA credential enrollment

Education

High school diploma, GED, or HiSET

Job description

Providing Essential Support to Keep Classrooms Safe, Clean, and Healthy

Do you take pride in creating clean, organized, and welcoming spaces? Are you looking for a meaningful role where your work directly supports children, families, and early childhood education programs?

Join our Head Start team and play a vital role in maintaining a safe, sanitary, and supportive environment where children can learn and thrive. As a Facilities & Classroom Support Assistant, you will help ensure our centers meet all sanitation and safety standards while also providing hands‑on support wherever needed throughout the facility.

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Competitive Pay (Level 10)
  • Starting at $15.00/hour
• Outstanding Work-Life Balance
  • Full-time schedule: 40 hours per week, 38 weeks per year
  • No evenings or weekends required
  • Paid holidays and breaks
  • Supportive team environment
• Exceptional Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • FREE life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 14 paid holidays annually
  • Paid inclement weather days
  • Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities
  • Career growth opportunities within Early Childhood Education

What You'll Do

• Maintaining a clean, safe, sanitary, and healthy environment in compliance with Missouri state sanitation guidelines
• Performing routine and deep cleaning of classrooms, common areas, and facility spaces as needed
• Assisting with general building maintenance and reporting supply or repair needs to supervisors
• Ensuring playgrounds are safe, clean, and free of hazards
• Supporting daily operations across classrooms, offices, kitchens, dining areas, and playgrounds
• Providing coverage during staff breaks and assisting with substitute coverage when needed
• Assisting in classrooms by preparing materials and supporting daily activities
• Helping in kitchen and dining areas, including meal setup, serving, and cleanup
• Modeling and encouraging positive behavior and self‑image in children
• Supporting children one‑on‑one, including those with special needs when required
• Participating alongside children during mealtimes and encouraging healthy eating habits
• Maintaining ongoing communication with staff, supervisors, and families
• Following confidentiality standards and program policies at all times
• Participating in professional development, training, and required certifications
• Reporting suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with mandated reporter requirements
• Supporting additional center needs as assigned

What We're Looking For

• High school diploma, GED, or HiSET required
• Knowledge of sanitation and cleaning procedures preferred
• Ability to follow Health Department regulations and Head Start performance standards
• Strong organizational skills and ability to plan and prioritize work
• Ability to follow directions and work independently or as part of a team
• Basic math skills required
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Flexibility, patience, and a positive attitude
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
• CPR and First Aid certification required or ability to obtain and maintain
• Valid driver's license required
• Ability to enroll in and complete a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential program within 2 years of hire
• Ability to take initiative, exercise sound judgment, and support team success

The above description is not a comprehensive listing of all job‑specific responsibilities, tasks, and duties.

Douglass Community Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and Drug‑Free Workplace.