Head Start Instructional Assistant

Amarillo, Bell Street Location; Amarillo (TX); On-site; USD 2,066,000 - 2,349,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas ESC Region 16 Amarillo, Bell Street Location is seeking a Head Start Instructional Assistant to support classroom operations and assist teachers in delivering developmentally appropriate activities. The role emphasizes safety, health, and active engagement with children in a Head Start setting.

The position requires a High School diploma or GED, CDA within one year, and current first aid/ CPR certification.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• CDA certification or willingness to obtain within one year.
• Current first aid/ CPR certification or willingness to obtain.
• Clear background checks at local, state, and federal levels.

Responsibilities

• Cooperates with and assists teacher with classroom operations.
• Interacts with children during all indoor and outdoor activities.
• Maintains a current health physical as required.
• Follows safety procedures and Head Start standards.

Skills

Experience with children

Bilingual (Spanish)

Interpersonal skills

Team player

Follow instructions

Technology basics

Safety compliance

Positive attitude

Education

High School diploma or GED

CDA within 1 year

First aid/ CPR certification

Background checks cleared

Job description

Head Start Instructional Assistant

Texas ESC Region 16 Amarillo, Bell Street Location - Amarillo, Texas Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in Texas ESC Region 16

Job Details

Job ID: 5899507

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: Aug 21, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

Primary Purpose:

To comply with all federal guidelines (Head Start Performance Standards, Transmittal Notices, etc.) and local Head Start/Early Head Start policies in providing children and families with Head Start/Early Head Start services. To assist teachers in providing children with a learning environment and varied experiences which will help them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development and toward the overall goal of social competence.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification

• High School diploma or GED required
• Child Development Associate (CDA) or willingness to obtain within one year required
• Current first aid/ CPR certification or willingness to obtain required
• Clear background history checks at the local, state, and federal levels required (Background checks are conducted by the ESC at no cost to the applicant.)

Skills

• Experience working with young children preferred
• Loving, nurturing disposition toward young children required
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred
• Valid Texas driver's license or other reliable mode of transportation during work hours required
• Proof of current automobile liability insurance required
• Ability to follow instructions and uphold the high standards of the Head Start quality of care according to the Head Start Performance Standards
• Moderate technology skills required
• Willing to uphold the Head Start Standards of Conduct required
• Must be service driven with the ability to assume personal responsibility and maintain a positive outlook
• Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, possess the ability to work as a team player, enjoy a variety of activities, and possess organizational abilities

Working Conditions:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom and nursery equipment such as toys, playgrounds, multiple-rider strollers, etc.; personal computer and printer
• Posture: Must be physically able to tolerate frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Must be physically able to participate in moderate to high levels of physical activity, such as, but not limited to, standing for moderate to lengthy periods of time, frequent squatting and sitting on the floor, frequent walking, and overhead reaching, occasional driving
• Lifting: Must be physically able to tolerate regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds or more)
• Environment: Must be physically able to tolerate cleaning products and sanitizers, work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; frequent exposure to bodily fluids; tolerate occasional travel between work sites
• Mental Demands: Must be able to work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress and self-control in the presence of children
• Regular Attendance is an essential function

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Daily Standards:

• Cooperates with and assists teacher with classroom operations
• Interacts with children during all indoor and outdoor activities
• Must provide program with a current health physical
• Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities
• Assists with diapering and toilet training using Early Head Start/Head Start approved procedures
• Actively supervises and interacts with children during all activities
• Uses calm, non-threatening voice
• Demonstrates respect for each child and accepts differences in children
• Corrects through conversation and models expected behavior
• Follows safety and environment regulations
• Models correct speech patterns and vocabulary for children
• Maintains a safe playground environment
• Substitutes in classes as needed
• Follows teacher's instructions for lesson plans
• Provides emergency medical care as needed
• Eats one meal daily with children (sharing the same menu) and assists children with clean up
• Monitors the appropriate approved persons for child pick up
• Cleans and sanitizes materials throughout the day and completes required documentation
• Complies with center policies
• Supports program policies and changes
• Completes and submits all forms by due dates
• Attends home visits as needed
• Obtains and maintains first aid/CPR certifications
• Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities
• Performs duties that directly and/or indirectly impact student performance
• Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the ESC safety program
• Performs professional responsibilities as required by ESC policies, processes, and procedures
• Incorporates appropriate technology in daily work and exhibits continual growth in technologies as outlined by supervisor
• Performs other duties as assigned

Professional Standards:

• Engages in respectful goal-oriented partnerships with families to promote student success and family well-being
• Maintains confidentiality of child and family information
• Interacts in a positive manner with parents and treats them with respect
• Acts as primary caregiver in the teacher’s absence
• Attends all required PLCs/staff development and meetings
• Attends parent meetings as required
• Completes appropriate Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential within the timeline designated by Head Start/Early Head Start CDA advisor; maintains current Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential once obtained
• Complies with ESC personnel policies regarding absences and tardiness
• Collects and analyzes information for improvement
• Maintains a professional level of confidentiality regarding all ESC matters
• Supports the mission, goals, and objectives of the ESC strategic plan
• Manages time, calendar, and job responsibilities to meet deadlines

Position Type:

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary:

Salary: $15 to $17.05 IS-1

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Donna Agee , Head Start Principal
• Amarillo, Cleveland Street Campus
• Email: [e-mail]