Preschool Assistant

Playcrafter Kids; Fort Collins (CO); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Artistic community

Year-round breaks

Free tuition for child(ren)

Self-care perks

Professional development

Job summary

Playcrafter Kids in Fort Collins, CO is seeking a Teaching Assistant to guide young learners aged 2.5–6 through a play-based curriculum and to grow into a Co-Lead Teacher. The role runs full-time year-round, 7:30 AM–4:30 PM, with opportunities for advancement.

Starting October 19, 2026, compensation ranges from $18 to $20 per hour, depending on experience and credentials, with raises for advancement to Co-Lead Teacher.

Qualifications

• 1+ years work experience with children in educational or creative settings.
• Strong communication and collaboration with teachers, children and staff.
• Willingness to complete required trainings and background checks.

Responsibilities

• Adaptable coverage: support classroom needs and fill in as substitute.
• Flexibility: work with different ages of children.
• Classroom leadership: foster a nurturing, inclusive environment and support teamwork.
• Routine assistance: snack prep, toileting, cleanup.
• Safety & organization: maintain safe, clean learning spaces and follow protocols.

Skills

Communication

Collaboration

Reliability

Education

PDIS Level 1/2

Job description

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Company parties
• Employee discounts
• Free food & snacks
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Wellness resources

Do you believe in the magic of play? Are you passionate about early childhood education and eager to inspire young minds through creativity and theater? If so, we want to meet you!

Playcrafter Kids

is a rapidly growing play-based preschool that integrates creative arts into early childhood education. Our mission is to empower every child to become a fearless creator, innovator, and lifelong learner. Located in Fort Collins, CO, we offer a unique learning environment where imagination and play take center stage.

Position Overview

We are seeking a passionate Teaching Assistant to guide and inspire our young learners with the intention to grow into a Co-Lead Teacher. As an Assistant, you will support and help implement creative, play-based ‘curriculum’ that fosters curiosity, collaboration, and growth in children ages 2.5–6. This role offers the opportunity to integrate the arts into daily learning while ensuring a safe and supportive classroom environment.

Full-Time / Year Round

School Year (August - May) & Summer Camps (June & July)

7:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday (40 hours per week minus lunch)

Start date: October 19, 2026

Compensation

This is an hourly position ranging from $18-20/hr based on experience, education and credentials. Will increase for Co-Lead Teacher.

Location

Fort Collins, CO

Job will remain open until filled.

Responsibilities

As an Assistant, you’ll support a creative team of educators, guiding children through play-based experiences that inspire joy, exploration, and growth. Key responsibilities include:

Adaptable Coverage

• Supporting classroom needs
• Filling in as a substitute when needed

Flexibility

• Adapt and work with different ages of children in our classrooms

Classroom Leadership

• Provide a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating classroom environment.
• Model and enforce positive behavior expectations, fostering social-emotional learning.
• Support other teachers ensuring collaboration and teamwork.

Routine Assistance

• Helping with snack prep, toileting, and cleanup

Safety & Organization

• Maintain a safe and clean learning environment.
• Follow state and school protocols to ensure children’s health and safety.

The Individual We’re Looking For

• 1+ years work experience with children (ages 2-12) in educational or creative environments.
• Level 1 (or 2!) on PDIS (Professional Development Information System for CO’s Early Childhood Educators)
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to engage effectively with teachers, children and staff.
• A nurturing, inclusive approach to teaching, with a passion for helping every child thrive.
• A growth mindset and a commitment to ongoing professional development.
• Reliable and punctual.

You’ll also need to

• Pass state and federal background checks and fingerprinting.
• Complete required CPR, First Aid, and PDIS classes within 30-90 days of hire.

Perks & Benefits

• Be part of an artistic, growing community dedicated to play and creativity!
• Scheduled breaks throughout the year (no holidays, spring break, and time off between school year and summer camps).
• Free or discounted tuition for your child(ren) in Playcrafter Kids programs.
• Self-care perks like chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage
• Opportunities for professional development to grow your skills and passion!

Please note that only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. However, we appreciate the time and effort all applicants put into their submissions. Thank you!

At Playcrafter Kids, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. Join us in shaping the future of early childhood education through play and the arts!