Mary Crane Center·Chicago, Illinois
The Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in implementing age-appropriate activities and maintaining a safe, organized classroom environment. They also observe child development, document learning moments, and collaborate with families through conferences and home visits.
Description Make a difference in a child’s future, every single day.
Are you passionate about helping young children grow, learn, and thrive?
Do you believe in the power of play, learning through experience, and strong family partnerships?
If so, we’d love to welcome you to our team as a Teacher Assistant in our Early Childhood and Head Start programs.
New hires are eligible for a $1,000 sign-on bonus (terms apply).
You’ll work side-by-side with a Lead Teacher to create joyful, developmentally rich classrooms where children feel safe, seen, and supported. This is more than a job, it’s a chance to shape lives, spark learning, and support families in your community.
What You'll Do Support Learning & Play Help implement engaging, age-appropriate activities using Creative Curriculum and Head Start standards Supervise and interact with children during classroom time, meals, and play Model respectful, positive behavior and guide children with gentle, consistent discipline Promote family-style dining and healthy habits
Observe & Celebrate Growth Assist with regular developmental assessments using tools like Creative Curriculum Checklists and Ages & Stages Questionnaires Capture learning moments through observation notes, photos, and child portfolios
Collaborate with Families Help coordinate and attend parent-teacher conferences and home visits Communicate daily with parents about classroom routines, activities, and their child’s progress Support families in engaging with the program and advocating for their child
Keep Our Classrooms Thriving Assist with planning and preparing lesson materials Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized learning space Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily
Be a Team Player Work closely with the Lead Teacher, Site Director, and other staff members Mentor volunteers, teacher aides, and foster grandparents Attend trainings, team meetings, and agency events as required
Education & Experience: Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, OR 60 credit hours of which 15 hours are in early childhood Gateways ECE Credential Level 4
Strong communication skills (written and verbal); bilingual in Spanish preferred Passion for early childhood development and family engagement Collaborative, flexible, and open to feedback Organized, detail-oriented, and committed to high-quality work Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and work on the floor with children Willingness to travel locally for home visits and meetings as needed
Why Join Us Mission-driven work with real impact on children and families Professional growth opportunities including CDA support, in-services, and workshops Collaborative culture where your voice matters Supportive leadership and experienced mentors
Compensation & Benefits Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options available), paid time off, and other employee wellness programs. Eligibility varies by position and hours worked. Additional benefit details will be provided during the hiring process.
Ready to inspire, nurture, and grow with us? Apply today and become part of a team that believes every child deserves a strong start. 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
Illinois classroom teacher roles are typically in steady demand, especially in districts seeking candidates who can support diverse student needs and communicate clearly with families and staff. This type of role is competitive because employers often look for classroom experience plus related backgrounds such as sociology, psychology, counseling, or education, and bilingual skills in English, Spanish, or Portuguese can strengthen an application. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then tailor your resume to highlight public speaking experience and weekend availability if you have it.