Teacher Assistant Head Start 3-5

Mary Crane Center; Buffalo, Chicago (MN, IL); On-site; USD 31,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Benefits package

Job summary

Mary Crane Center in Buffalo, MN is seeking a Teacher Assistant for our Early Childhood and Head Start programs. You will work with a Lead Teacher to create engaging, developmentally appropriate activities and support families in the community.

The role emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and meeting the needs of young children. New hires are eligible for a $1,000 sign-on bonus and a comprehensive benefits package, with opportunities for CDA support and professional development.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or 60 credits with 15 in early childhood are required.
• Gateway ECE Credential Level 4 is required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with designing and implementing age-appropriate activities using Creative Curriculum and Head Start standards.
• Supervise children during classroom time, meals, and play.
• Model respectful behavior and guide children with gentle, consistent discipline.
• Promote family-style dining and healthy habits.
• Assist with developmental assessments and document learning moments.
• Coordinate and attend parent–teacher conferences and home visits.
• Communicate daily with parents about routines and progress.
• Support families in engaging with the program and advocating for their child.
• Prepare lesson materials and maintain a clean, safe learning space.

Skills

Communication skills

Bilingual in Spanish

Early childhood development

Family engagement

Collaboration & flexibility

Organization & attention to detail

Lifting up to 30 lbs

Local travel for home visits

Education

Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development

60 credit hours with 15 in early childhood

Job description

Description

Make a difference in a child’s future, every single day. Are you passionate about helping young children grow, learn, and thrive? Do you believe in the power of play, learning through experience, and strong family partnerships? If so, we’d love to welcome you to our team as a Teacher Assistant in our Early Childhood and Head Start programs. New hires are eligible for a $1,000 sign-on bonus (terms apply).

You’ll work side‑by‑side with a Lead Teacher to create joyful, developmentally rich classrooms where children feel safe, seen, and supported. This is more than a job, it’s a chance to shape lives, spark learning, and support families in your community.

What You’ll Do

Support Learning & Play

• Help implement engaging, age-appropriate activities using Creative Curriculum and Head Start standards
• Supervise and interact with children during classroom time, meals, and play
• Model respectful, positive behavior and guide children with gentle, consistent discipline
• Promote family-style dining and healthy habits

Observe & Celebrate Growth

• Assist with regular developmental assessments using tools like Creative Curriculum Checklists and Ages & Stages Questionnaires
• Capture learning moments through observation notes, photos, and child portfolios

Collaborate with Families

• Help coordinate and attend parent‑teacher conferences and home visits
• Communicate daily with parents about classroom routines, activities, and their child’s progress
• Support families in engaging with the program and advocating for their child

Keep Our Classrooms Thriving

• Assist with planning and preparing lesson materials
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized learning space
• Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily

Be a Team Player

• Work closely with the Lead Teacher, Site Director, and other staff members
• Mentor volunteers, teacher aides, and foster grandparents
• Attend trainings, team meetings, and agency events as required

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, OR 60 credit hours of which 15 hours are in early childhood
• Gateways ECE Credential Level 4

Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong communication skills (written and verbal); bilingual in Spanish preferred
• Passion for early childhood development and family engagement
• Collaborative, flexible, and open to feedback
• Organized, detail-oriented, and committed to high-quality work
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and work on the floor with children
• Willingness to travel locally for home visits and meetings as needed

Why Join Us

• Mission-driven work with real impact on children and families
• Professional growth opportunities including CDA support, in-services, and workshops
• Collaborative culture where your voice matters
• Supportive leadership and experienced mentors

Compensation & Benefits

Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options available), paid time off, and other employee wellness programs. Eligibility varies by position and hours worked. Additional benefit details will be provided during the hiring process.

Ready to inspire, nurture, and grow with us?

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x2866.