Center Assistant/Aide

Job Title: Center Assistant/Aide

Department: Squaxin Island Child Development Center

Reports to: Assistant Director

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

TS Range: 3/4 ($17.35)

Opening Date: June 5th 2026

Closing Date: June 19th 2026

SUMMARY: The Squaxin Island Child Development Center Assistant/Aide is an entry level position. With guidance from the Lead Teacher, the Center Assistant/Aide will provide support for a safe and nurturing environment. Under the guidance of the Lead Teacher, the Center Assistant/Aide will engage children in developmentally appropriate activities that help build their social, emotional and intellectual growth. The Center Assistant/Aide will complete other duties as assigned by the Lead Teacher.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROGRAM STANDARDS:

· Under the guidance of the Lead Teacher, interact frequently, affectionately, and respectfully with children.

· Under the guidance of the Lead Teacher, communicate directly with children at their level.

· Under the guidance of the Lead Teacher, engage and communicate constructively with individual and groups of children during activities and routines.

· Respect and observe children, intervene when needed to maintain safety.

· Encourage and model social behavior and expectations that are developmentally appropriate.

· Acknowledge feelings with sensitivity and demonstrate appropriate expressions of emotions.

· Acknowledge all parents and visitors. Demonstrate a friendly, courteous, and professional demeanor.

· Refer parents and visitors to the Lead Teacher with any questions or concerns.

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROGRAM STANDARDS:

· Must be 16 years of age.

· Be able to pass an employee background check and be fingerprinted.

· Be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening.

· Obtain a T.B test

· Meet all other federal or state requirements.

· Have a High School Diploma or GED, if not completed must be enrolled in an educational program.

· Complete all preservice requirements, pursuant to WAC 110-300-0105

· Must be comfortable working with children aged to five

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Employee will regularly be exposed to chemicals that may appear in cleaning solutions and /or arts and crafts activities. The employee will be exposed to outdoor weather conditions. The noise level range in the work environment is quiet to noisy.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS IN ACCOEDANCE WITH PROGRAM STANDARDS: The physical demands of a Center Assistant/Aide are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. This may include lifting, carrying, holding, bending, stooping, stretching, pushing, pulling, squatting, kneeling, reaching, or moving children with a weight range of 10-50 pounds. A Center Assistant/Aide is also expected to immediately and appropriately respond to multiple or unexpected situations or emergencies. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

DRUG FREE WORK ENVIRONMENTIN ACCORDANCE WITH PROGRAM STANDARDS: The work environment respects the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each member. The work environment is a drug free workplace, candidates will be required to have a urinalysis for drug and alcohol screening.

INDIAN PREFERENCE IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROGRAM STANDARDS: Indian preference will be exercised in the hiring process of this position.