Collaborate with the lead teacher to provide a positive learning environment and curriculum supporting children's holistic development. Responsibilities include supervising children, assisting with classroom organization, and supporting family engagement activities.
Requirements summary
Candidates must have a High School Diploma or GED and either a CDA certificate, a community college certificate in early childhood development, or be enrolled in a relevant degree program. Higher pay tiers are available for those with an Associate's degree or higher in early childhood education.
high schoolassociate degreebachelor degreeprofessional certificateDocumentationBehavior ManagementCurriculum ImplementationChild SupervisionClassroom ManagementFamily EngagementPositive GuidanceHealth and Safety ComplianceChild ObservationEarly Childhood Development
Job description
About Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC)
Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC) is a nonprofit organization serving children and families across Oregon through early education and family support programs. At OCDC, our work has purpose. Every role contributes to creating stronger families, healthier communities, and brighter futures for children across Oregon.
Position Summary
Collaborates with the teacher in providing a positive learning environment and curriculum that support children’s social, emotional, physical, language and cognitive development, consistent with Head Start Performance Standards, OCDC policies and procedures, USDA, CCD Licensing regulations and/or other applicable standards. Essential Functions:
Support the classroom teacher in maintaining a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment
Supervise children indoors and outdoors using positive guidance and behavior‑management techniques
Assist with classroom setup, organization, cleaning, and inventory of materials and supplies
Support implementation of individualized curriculum and daily classroom activities
Help balance teacher‑directed and child‑directed learning experiences
Assist with observations, assessments, and maintaining children’s portfolios and documentation
Communicate regularly with the teacher regarding children’s health, behavior, and development
Support family engagement, including newsletters, conferences, and home visits
Promote healthy practices related to nutrition, wellness, and child development
Maintain confidentiality and follow all safety policies and procedures
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities
Maintain regular and reliable attendance
Perform other related duties as assigned
Education and Experience Requirements: Preschool Teacher Assistant E- $19.58-$21.76 hourly ($22.67-$23.93 hourly in Metro locations)
High School Diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria with an Oregon Registry Step less than 8 AND
Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate within 6 months from date of hire Or
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Sick Leave
Paid Time Off
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Employer Paid Life Insurance
Vision Insurance
Holidays
Medical Insurance
Pet Insurance
Wellness Resources
Paid Leave Programs
Retirement Plan With Employer Contribution
Flexible Spending Accounts For Healthcare
Employer Paid Disability Coverage
Flexible Spending Accounts For Dependent Care
One year Oregon community college certificate2 in field with training or coursework in early childhood development WITH a focus on preschool development within 1 year from date of hire Or
Enrolled in an associate’s or bachelor’s program in early childhood education or child development to be completed within 2 years from date of hire. Preschool Teacher Assistant CE –$20.95-$23.28 hourly ($23.05-$25.61 hourly in Metro locations)
High School Diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria with an Oregon Registry Step equal to or greater than 8 AND
Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate within 6 months from date of hire Or
One year Oregon community college certificate2 in field WITH training or coursework in early childhood development with a focus on preschool development within 1 year from date of hire Or
Enrolled in an associate’s or bachelor’s program in early childhood education or child development to be completed within 2 years from date of hire. Preschool Teacher Assistant C – $20.95-$23.28 hourly ($23.05-$25.61 hourly in Metro locations)
High School Diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria AND
Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate Or
1 year Oregon community college certificate2 in field WITH training or coursework in early childhood development with a focus on preschool development. Preschool Teacher Assistant A – $22.42-$24.91 hourly ($25.01- $27.40 hourly in Metro locations) Associate’s degree or higher in
Early childhood education or child development Or
Any field and coursework equivalent3 to a major relating to early childhood education or child development WITH training or coursework in early childhood development with a focus on preschooler development and/or education. 1 PTA-E who meet the education requirements and are on Oregon Registry Step 7 or higher are paid at PG E5 starting on step A-1 2 Oregon Registry Step 8 or higher per certificate or college coursework pathway 3 Oregon Registry Step 9 or higher per degree or college coursework pathway Metro locations include Washington County and Multnomah County sites. Placement within the range is determined by factors such as relevant experience, skills, certifications, and internal equity.
Benefits
OCDC offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well being, and work–life balance. Eligible employees (20+ hours/week) may receive:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan with employer contribution
Paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and paid leave programs
Employer paid life and disability coverage, with voluntary options available
Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness resources
Optional benefits including pet insurance At OCDC, employee well being is a priority and an essential part of supporting our mission and communities. Equal Employment Opportunity: OCDC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. We strongly encourage individuals from historically underrepresented communities to apply. OCDC is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation. If you need an accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please let us know. Join Our Team At Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC), we’re passionate about helping children and families thrive. As a statewide nonprofit delivering Head Start and early learning programs across Oregon, our work is powered by dedicated educators, social service professionals, and support teams who believe in creating stronger communities—together. Benefits That Support You OCDC offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well‑being, and work‑life balance. From medical coverage and retirement savings to paid time off and wellness resources, our benefits are built to support you- at work and beyond- while you make a meaningful impact in your community.
Market context
Oregon preschool assistant roles stay in steady demand
In Oregon, Preschool Teacher Assistant roles are commonly tied to licensing and background-clearance requirements, and candidates with an Associate or Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education or a CDA may stand out. Competition often centers on meeting state qualifications, showing classroom support experience, and being ready to work within early learning settings. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your licensing status and clearance readiness before applying.
