Mary Crane Center·Chicago, Illinois
Assist the Lead Teacher in creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment for young children. Collaborate with families and support children's developmental assessments and learning activities.
Description $1,000 Sign-On Bonus + Full Benefits + Supportive Team
We’re hiring Teacher Assistants for our Early Head Start (0–3) classrooms.
This role is hands-on, meaningful, and best suited for someone who enjoys working closely with young children in a structured, team-based environment.
What You’ll Do as a Teacher Assistant Support daily care, routines, and play for infants and toddlers Help create a calm, safe, and engaging classroom Work side-by-side with a Lead Teacher Build positive relationships with children and families What You’ll Get $1,000 sign-on bonus Medical, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off Ongoing training and growth opportunities (CDA support, coaching) A team environment where staff support each other
Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood OR 60 college credits (15 in ECE) Gateways Infant Toddler Credential Level 4 Able to lift 30 lbs and work on the floor with children Reliable, team-oriented, and open to feedback Why This Role Working with infants and toddlers is more hands-on and physically active than other age groups. We focus on creating classrooms where staff feel supported so they can do their best work.
Apply today to join a team making a real impact in early childhood.
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.
Market context
In Illinois, Teacher Assistant roles for ages 0–3 are often in demand where early childhood programs need staff with infant-toddler experience and the right credentials. These positions can be competitive because employers may require an Associate's Degree or 60 college credits with ECE coursework, plus a Gateways Infant Toddler Credential Level 4 and the ability to lift 30 lbs. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your credential match and highlight any infant-toddler classroom experience in your application.