Training & Research Foundation·Santa Ana, California
Participate in a two-year apprenticeship combining college coursework at Irvine Valley College with paid, supervised hands-on experience. Support young children and families within a classroom setting while building a professional career in early childhood education.
Description Learn. Earn. Build a career supporting young children and families. Two-year college and paid work-based learning pathway offered through Irvine Valley College, TRF Children & Family Services, and OC Pathways.
WHY THIS OPPORTUNITY MATTERS Are you passionate about working with young children but don't know where to start? Or maybe you're looking for a career that offers purpose, growth, and the opportunity to earn while you learn.
The Early Childhood Educator Registered Apprenticeship Program is designed for individuals who want to build a meaningful career in early childhood education while gaining paid, hands-on experience.
Through a partnership between Training and Research Foundation (TRF), Irvine Valley College (IVC), and OC Pathways, you'll receive college instruction, one-on-one support, and real classroom experience—all while earning a paycheck.
This isn't just a job. It's the first step toward a rewarding career supporting children, families, and your own professional future.
WHO SHOULD COMPLETE THE INTEREST FORM AND ATTEND THE JULY 20TH INFORMATION SESSION? Individuals that are 18 or older and want to work with children while earning related educational units Individuals interested in careers supporting young children and families Individuals able to participate in a 2-year cohort, including Irvine Valley College (IVC) coursework and paid on-the-job training through the Training and Research Foundation (TRF) Candidates who can meet IVC enrollment and TRF Children & Family Services hiring requirements After acceptance into the cohort. Official hiring as an apprentice employee by TRF is contingent on the following, individuals will produce DOJ Background Clearance Health Screening and related proof of immunizations and/or clearance (Pertussis, TB, and Measles)
READY TO START YOUR CAREER? If you're ready to invest in yourself while making a difference in the lives of young children, we'd love to meet you. Apply today and begin your journey toward becoming an Early Childhood Educator.
Must be at least 18 years of age. High school diploma or equivalent. Eligible to enroll at Irvine Valley College. Ability to commit to the full two-year apprenticeship program, including coursework and paid on-the-job training. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated interest in working with young children. ADDITIONAL HIRING REQUIREMENTS Upon acceptance into the apprenticeship, candidates must successfully complete: Criminal Record Clearance (DOJ/FBI/CACI). Health Screening (LIC 503). Proof of required immunizations and/or clearances, including Tdap (Pertussis), MMR (Measles), Influenza (if applicable), and current TB clearance. Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training (AB 1207). Verification of identity and authorization to work in the United States as required by federal law.
Market context
In California, early childhood educator apprenticeship roles are often competitive because they combine classroom training with paid work-based learning and require eligibility for college enrollment, background clearance, health screening, and immunization records. Candidates who already meet the age, diploma, and enrollment requirements can move faster, and this platform’s AI-summarized job requirements and benefits help you review the original posting more quickly. Before applying, confirm your Irvine Valley College eligibility and gather your documentation so you can submit without delays.
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