Preschool Assistant Teacher - Merrillville

Bright Beginnings Academy; Merrillville (IN); On-site; USD 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Holiday pay

Discounted childcare

Voluntary insurance plans

401(k) options

Leadership development

Job summary

Bright Beginnings Academy in Merrillville, IN seeks a Preschool Assistant Teacher to support a safe, engaging classroom for young children. You will assist with daily activities, supervise children, and help bring the curriculum to life under the lead teacher's guidance.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED, plus 1 year of childcare experience. CPR/First Aid and state background checks are expected; workdays are Monday through Friday, with hours 12:00pm–6:00pm or 3:00pm–6:00pm.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• TCC or CDA credential may be required or preferred depending on state rules.
• At least 1 year of experience working with young children in a childcare or preschool setting.
• Must meet state licensing, background check, and ongoing professional development requirements.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, nurturing classroom environment and support daily activities.
• Provide active supervision and assist with curriculum implementation alongside lead teacher.
• Support children's development through positive guidance and play.
• Assist with routines, organization, and family communication; help with school operations.

Skills

Childcare experience

Team player

Patience

Communication skills

Adaptable

Attendance reliability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Early Childhood Education coursework

CDA or TCC

Job description

Preschool Assistant Teacher - Merrillville

Who Are We?

Here at Bright Beginnings, we charter children in various stimulating exercises that are age-appropriate and satisfy their need for play. We have different programs to involve their creativity, mental exercise, and interaction with other kids in worthwhile enterprises that promote holistic learning. There are ample advantages to early learning. One is being able to develop and train the brain in sensible activities, trigger multiple brain sections that cater to learning in interdisciplinary fields, and develop social skills that are helpful in effective decision-making as well as fostering healthy relationships with others in the real world. This, among others, makes a child a winner. We have a minimum class-to-caregiver ratio at our child care center so that each child is given the maximum amount of attention and care they need.

Where you play a key role in shaping a child’s earliest learning experiences.

WHO WE ARE

Bright Beginnings Academyis part of a growing network of early childhood education schools committed to creating safe, engaging, and inspiring environments where children thrive.

We believe early childhood education is where everything begins– firststeps, first friendships, and the foundation for a lifetime of learning. Our classrooms are communities where curiosity is encouraged, creativity is nurtured, and every child is valued.

WHY JOIN US

Our people are at the heart of everything we do. When you join our team, you become part of a collaborative, supportive environment where your work helps create a positive experience for children and families each day.

As a Preschool Floater Teacher, you’ll gain hands‑on classroom experience and build the skills to grow your career in early childhood education.

ABOUT THE ROLE

In this role,you’llsupport the classroom team in creating a safe, engaging environment where children can learn and grow.You’llassistwith daily activities, provide active supervision, and help bring the curriculum to life while ensuring a smooth, positive classroom experience.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Help create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment for all children
• Support daily activities and curriculum implementation alongside the lead teacher
• Always provide active supervision, ensuring safety and compliance with required ratios
• Support children’s development through positive guidance, interaction, and play
• Assistwith classroom routines, organization, and communication with families, while supporting overall school operations

Each day is an opportunity tomakea positive impact on a child’s growth and early learning experience.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We’reseekingdependable, positive individuals who enjoy working with children and contributing to a supportive team environment.

You’llbe a great fit if you:

• Have a passion for working with young children
• Bring a positive, patient, and supportive approach
• Are dependable and show up ready to contribute each day
• Work well as part of a collaborative team
• Are open to learning, feedback, and growth
• Adapt well in a fast-paced classroom environment
• Ability to work Monday-Friday 12:00pm-6:00pm or 3:00pm-6:00pm

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)required. Coursework or degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• TCC or CDA
• At least 1 year of previous experience working with young children in a childcare, preschool, or similar setting preferred.
• Basic understanding of classroom procedures and willingness to learn state licensing and compliance requirements.
• Must meet all state-specific education, certification (including CPR/First Aid, whererequired), licensing, and regulatory requirements, including the ability to pass a background check and complete ongoing professional development.
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative approach to working with children, families, and team members.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

WHATYOU’LL GET

• Competitive pay ($14 hourly based on experience and location )
• Paid time off (PTO)and holiday pay
• Discounted childcare
• Optiontopurchasevarious voluntary insurance plans
• 401(k) options
• Ongoing leadership development and career growth opportunities