Yellow Brick Road Early Childhood Development Center
Location
Ankeny, Iowa
Salary
$14 - $17 / HOUR
The Assistant Educator supports the Lead Educator in creating a nurturing and innovative learning environment for young children. This includes implementing lesson plans, supervising children, and maintaining a positive classroom culture.
Candidates should have experience working with young children and knowledge of early childhood development principles. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, along with the ability to meet physical demands of the job.
Description At Yellow Brick Road, we’re on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you’re energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you’ll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.
The purpose of the Assistant Educator is to support the Lead Educator in providing a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where young children can thrive and develop essential skills for lifelong success. Through collaboration, flexibility, and care, our Assistant Educators play a vital role in promoting social and emotional development, encouraging curiosity, and reinforcing daily routines. By embracing our core values, Assistant Educators help maintain a safe and stimulating space where each child is valued, respected, and supported on their learning journey.
What You’ll Need: Previous experience working with young children in a childcare setting is preferred. Knowledge of early childhood development principles and best practices. Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to work effectively as part of a team. Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, which may include: Standing or sitting for extended periods of time. Lifting and carrying young children and classroom materials up to 65lbs. Bending, stooping, and kneeling to interact with children at their level. Ability to respond quickly to emergencies or situations requiring physical intervention. Willingness to undergo background checks and meet state licensing requirements for working in a childcare setting. Must possess a valid CPR/First Aid certification, or willing to obtain within 30 days of employment.
Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities Monday - Friday Schedule – No Weekends! 401(k) Plan Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays Employee Childcare Discount The starting pay range for this position is $14 to $17 an hour and is applicable for candidates who will be working at our locations in Iowa. This range is subject to adjustment for other geographic work locations. In addition to geographic location, Yellow Brick Road considers education, experience, internal equity, market demands, and other qualifying criteria to determine starting wages.
In addition to compensation benefits, Yellow Brick Road offers a variety of health and welfare benefits, based on eligibility, including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and career development.
Market context
In Iowa, assistant educator openings are commonly tied to childcare centers and early learning programs, where demand is driven by ongoing staffing needs and compliance with classroom ratios. These roles can be competitive because employers often look for childcare experience, early childhood development knowledge, and the ability to meet physical demands such as lifting up to 65 lbs, while also requiring CPR/First Aid certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your certification status and highlight any hands-on childcare experience in your application.
Early Childhood Educator (Preschool)
Early Childhood Teacher – Preschool Classroom (Age 3)
Infant Teacher Assistant
Sped teacher 2026-2027
Early Childhood Teacher Assistant
Assistant Coach, Advanced Baseball