Center Aide/Custodian

Providing Essential Support to Keep Classrooms Safe, Clean, and Healthy Do you take pride in creating clean, organized, and welcoming spaces? Are you looking for a meaningful role where your work directly supports children, families, and early childhood education programs? Join our Head Start team and play a vital role in maintaining a safe, sanitary, and supportive environment where children can learn and thrive. As a Facilities & Classroom Support Assistant, you will help ensure our centers meet all sanitation and safety standards while also providing hands-on support wherever needed throughout the facility.

Why You'll Love Working Here Competitive Pay (Level 10) Starting at $15.00/hour

Outstanding Work-Life Balance Full-time schedule

40 hours per week, 38 weeks per year No evenings or weekends required Paid holidays and breaks Supportive team environment

Exceptional Benefits Health, dental, and vision insurance FREE life insurance 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) 14 paid holidays annually Paid inclement weather days Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities Career growth opportunities within Early Childhood Education

What You'll Do In this role, you’ll support the center by

Maintaining a clean, safe, sanitary, and healthy environment in compliance with Missouri state sanitation guidelines Performing routine and deep cleaning of classrooms, common areas, and facility spaces as needed Assisting with general building maintenance and reporting supply or repair needs to supervisors Ensuring playgrounds are safe, clean, and free of hazards Supporting daily operations across classrooms, offices, kitchens, dining areas, and playgrounds Providing coverage during staff breaks and assisting with substitute coverage when needed Assisting in classrooms by preparing materials and supporting daily activities Helping in kitchen and dining areas, including meal setup, serving, and cleanup Modeling and encouraging positive behavior and self-image in children Supporting children one-on-one, including those with special needs when required Participating alongside children during mealtimes and encouraging healthy eating habits Maintaining ongoing communication with staff, supervisors, and families Following confidentiality standards and program policies at all times Participating in professional development, training, and required certifications Reporting suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with mandated reporter requirements Supporting additional center needs as assigned

What We're Looking For High school diploma, GED, or HiSET required Knowledge of sanitation and cleaning procedures preferred Ability to follow Health Department regulations and Head Start performance standards Strong organizational skills and ability to plan and prioritize work Ability to follow directions and work independently or as part of a team Basic math skills required Strong communication skills (written and verbal) Flexibility, patience, and a positive attitude Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times CPR and First Aid certification required or ability to obtain and maintain Valid driver’s license required Ability to enroll in and complete a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential program within 2 years of hire Ability to take initiative, exercise sound judgment, and support team success

The above description is not a comprehensive listing of all job-specific responsibilities, tasks, and duties.

Douglass Community Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and Drug-Free Workplace.