Head Start Early Childhood Assistant — Make a Difference

Maryland Rural Development Corporation; Aberdeen (MD); On-site; USD 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care plan (Medical, Dental &amp

Retirement plan (401k, IRA)

Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary &

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick &

Short Term Disability

Training & Development

Job summary

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) seeks a Head Start Teacher Assistant to support a safe, engaging classroom for preschoolers, promote school readiness, and reinforce MRDC’s priorities. You will assist with instruction, behavior management, and daily activities while maintaining a positive learning environment.

Responsibilities include lesson planning support, child observation, helping with routines, and fostering family involvement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; CDA credential, Associate’s degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred
• Previous experience with preschool-aged children is preferred
• Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting
• Must pass Maryland licensing requirements (medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening)

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Start Teacher in planning and implementing lesson plans aligned with Head Start guidelines
• Engage children in developmentally appropriate activities
• Observe and assess children's development and contribute to individualized learning plans
• Support positive social-emotional behaviors and problem-solving
• Supervise children to maintain a safe, nurturing environment
• Maintain organized classroom and assist with materials
• Support daily routines (meals, naptime, transitions)
• Follow Head Start health and safety policies
• Build positive relationships with families and communicate progress
• Encourage parental involvement in activities and events
• Assist in preparing materials for parent meetings
• Collaborate with staff and program administrators
• Attend required trainings and meetings
• Ensure files are complete, accurate, and confidential
• Comply with Maryland licensing requirements
• Perform related duties as needed

Skills

Passion for working with children

Cultural competency

Follow instructions

Teamwork

Communication (written and oral)

Relationship building

Driver’s license

Ability to travel to MRDC locations

Criminal background check

Maryland licensing requirements (TB/MD

Education

CDA credential

Associate’s degree

Coursework in Early Childhood Education

Job description

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) seeks a Head Start Teacher Assistant to support a safe, engaging classroom for preschoolers, promote school readiness, and reinforce MRDC’s priorities. You will assist with instruction, behavior management, and daily activities while maintaining a positive learning environment.

Responsibilities include lesson planning support, child observation, helping with routines, and fostering family involvement.