EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR APPRENTICESHIP

TRFCF; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 24,796 - 30,307; Part time

Job summary

Training and Research Foundation (TRF) in collaboration with Irvine Valley College (IVC) offers the Early Childhood Educator Registered Apprenticeship Program in Santa Ana. This paid, part-time apprenticeship combines college coursework with hands-on experience in early childhood settings, enabling you to build a meaningful career while earning a paycheck.

If you are 18 or older, have a high school diploma, and can commit to a two-year program, you can enroll and begin gaining college credits

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Eligible to enroll at Irvine Valley College.
• Ability to commit to the full two-year apprenticeship program, including coursework and paid on-the-job training.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated interest in working with young children.
• Criminal Record Clearance (DOJ/FBI/CACI).
• Health Screening (LIC 503).
• Proof of required immunizations and/or clearances, including Tdap, MMR, and TB clearance.
• Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training (AB 1207).
• Verification of identity and authorization to work in the United States.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Interest in young children

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Description

Learn. Earn. Build a career supporting young children and families.

Two-year college and paid work-based learning pathway offered through Irvine Valley College, TRF Children & Family Services, and

OC Pathways.

WHY THIS OPPORTUNITY MATTERS

Are you passionate about working with young children but don't know where to start? Or maybe you're looking for a career that offers purpose, growth, and the opportunity to earn while you learn.

The Early Childhood Educator Registered Apprenticeship Program is designed for individuals who want to build a meaningful career in early childhood education while gaining paid, hands‑on experience.

Through a partnership between Training and Research Foundation (TRF), Irvine Valley College (IVC), and OC Pathways, you'll receive college instruction, one‑on‑one support, and real classroom experience—all while earning a paycheck.

This isn't just a job. It's the first step toward a rewarding career supporting children, families, and your own professional future.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Paid, part‑time, supervised experience working with young children and families
• College coursework and guided support at Irvine Valley College
• A clear pathway toward early childhood education careers
• Academic and career guidance throughout the program
• Zero‑Cost Tuition and Fees for Apprenticeship Courses

WHO SHOULD COMPLETE THE INTEREST FORM AND ATTEND THE JULY 20TH INFORMATION SESSION?

• Individuals that are 18 or older and want to work with children while earning related educational units
• Individuals interested in careers supporting young children and families
• Individuals able to participate in a 2‑year cohort, including Irvine Valley College (IVC) coursework and paid on‑the‑job training through the Training and Research Foundation (TRF)
• Candidates who can meet IVC enrollment and TRF Children & Family

Services hiring requirements

• After acceptance into the cohort. Official hiring as an apprentice employee by TRF is contingent on the following, individuals will produce
• DOJ Background Clearance
• Health Screening and related proof of immunizations and/or clearance (Pertussis, TB, and Measles)

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Eligible to enroll at Irvine Valley College.
• Ability to commit to the full two‑year apprenticeship program, including coursework and paid on‑the‑job training.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated interest in working with young children.

ADDITIONAL HIRING REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Clearance (DOJ/FBI/CACI).
• Health Screening (LIC 503).
• Proof of required immunizations and/or clearances, including Tdap (Pertussis), MMR (Measles), Influenza (if applicable), and current TB clearance.
• Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training (AB 1207).
• Verification of identity and authorization to work in the United States as required by federal law.