Early Childhood Assistant Teacher — University Setting

Southeast Missouri State University; Cape Girardeau (MO); Hybrid; USD 23,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast Missouri State University seeks an Assistant Teacher for the University School for Young Children to support the lead teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities on campus.

The role requires an AA in Early Childhood Education or related field, strong communication and teamwork, and the ability to engage with young children, families, and licensing requirements; the position is full-time and located on SEMO's Cape Girardeau campus.

Qualifications

• AA degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Experience or demonstrated interest in working with young children.
• Knowledge of positive guidance techniques appropriate for young children.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist the lead teacher in planning and implementing a developmental program to meet Center guidelines.
• Assist students in the classroom.
• Assist with classroom preparation and clean up on a daily basis.
• Greet each parent and child in the classroom.
• Assist in maintaining open communication with all families.
• Assist in planning and executing all classroom and outdoor activities.
• Promote the welfare, health and safety of all children.
• Assume special assignments as necessary for conducting the program.
• Assist with the assessment of the children and the classroom.
• Assist with daily attendance reports.
• Assist staff with setting up the classroom and opening/closing the facility as needed.
• Assist with meeting all licensing and accreditation requirements.
• Assist with documentation and updating the files.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Verbal communication

Written communication

Team collaboration

Positive guidance

Education

AA degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

12-35 higher education credits in early childhood education or related field

Job description

Assistant Teacher

University School for Young Children

College of Education, Health and Human Studies

Full time

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist the lead teacher in planning and implementing a developmental program to meet Center guidelines
• Assist students in the classroom
• Assist with classroom preparation and clean up on a daily basis
• Greet each parent and child in the classroom
• Assist in maintaining open communication with all families
• Asist in planning and executing all classroom and outdoor activities
• Promote the welfare, health and safety of all children
• Assume special assignments as necessary for conducting the program
• Assist with the assessment of the children and the classroom
• Assist with daily attendance reports
• Assist staff with setting up the classroom and opening/closing the facility as needed
• Assist with meeting all licensing and accreditation requirements
• Assist with documentation and updating the files

• AA degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, Special Education or Child Development Associate (CDA) or AA degree in another field and 12-35 higher education credits in early childhood education, child development, elementary education, and/or early childhood special education
• Experience or demonstrated interest in working with young children
• Knowledge of positive guidance techniques appropriate for young children
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Ability to meet the physical needs of the children including lifting, holding, feeding, and diapering
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stoop, bend, stretch, reach, kneel, sit on the floor, and be physically active
• Demonstrated experience and understanding of customer service

Application Deadline: The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. To ensure full consideration, applications must be received byAugust 31, 2026.

To Apply: Submit the following items online by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the page:

• Letter of interest addressing position qualifications
• Current Resume
• Names and contact information of three professional references may be asked for at a later date

About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.

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