The Staff Pad·Helena, Montana
The Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in planning and executing developmentally appropriate activities while ensuring a safe and clean environment for toddlers. They are responsible for providing constant supervision, guiding behavior, and collaborating with staff and families to meet individual child needs.
The Staff Pad has partnered with a reputable healthcare organization in Helena, MT, and we are seeking a caring and dependable Early Childhood Assistant Teacher for the Toddler Room to support the care and development of toddlers ages 19 months to 3 years. This role works closely with the Lead Teacher to create a safe, healthy, stimulating, and developmentally appropriate learning environment. Flexibility to work across classrooms based on the needs of the center is required. What You’ll Do Support the Lead Teacher in planning and executing classroom activities Provide constant supervision of toddlers throughout the day, including meals, nap time, planning time, and outdoor play Maintain a safe, healthy, clean, and stimulating classroom environment Support developmentally appropriate curriculum, learning experiences, and classroom materials Respond to individual children’s needs, interests, strengths, and concerns Guide children’s behavior using positive and effective approaches Encourage exploration, experimentation, problem-solving, cooperation, and socialization Assist with assessing individual and group needs Collaborate with the Lead Teacher, staff, families, and community resources Monitor and report suspected child abuse as required Attend meetings, training, and professional development activities Participate in ongoing self-assessment and professional growth Follow State Licensing, Health Department, Fire Marshal, CACFP, and STARS to Quality standards Receive guidance and oversight from the Lead Teacher or Director Provide classroom coverage and support across classrooms as needed What We’re Looking For Education & Experience High school diploma, GED, or HiSET preferred 2+ years of experience in a licensed childcare facility preferred Licenses & Certifications AHA Heart Saver CPR and Pediatric First Aid required (within 30 days of hire) Montana Early Childhood Project Practitioner Registry required (within 15 days of hire) Infant Safety Essentials required (within 30 days) Health and Safety Required Professional Development required (within 90 days) Mandatory 16-hour annual training required Current organization and State Child Care Licensing-required immunizations Additional Attributes Knowledge & understanding of childhood growth, development, and Early Childhood Development principles Genuine interest in working with children and adapting activities to their needs Strong teamwork, communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills Strong child supervision and safety skills Ability to remain calm under pressure and manage multiple tasks and stressors effectively Respectful and professional approach with children, families, staff, and community partners Ability to follow classroom routines and lesson plans and work effectively under the guidance of a Lead Teacher or Director What You Can Expect
Competitive Compensation Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance Long & Short-Term Disability Coverage, HSA& FSA Options Generous PTO, Vacation days, holidays & sick leave Tuition Assistance & Reimbursement 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match Cafeteria, Health Club Membership & Affordable Child Care Success Share Payout Compensation is reviewed annually to remain competitive with industry standards. If you are passionate about supporting young children and creating a safe, positive environment where toddlers can learn, explore, and grow, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.
Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and at least two years of experience in a licensed childcare facility. Required certifications include CPR, Pediatric First Aid, and specific state-mandated early childhood training.
Market context
Teaching assistant openings in Montana often draw steady interest because schools need dependable support staff who can work closely with students and classroom teachers. This role is competitive when candidates already have child-care or school-based experience, behavior management skills, and the ability to meet the listed age and diploma requirements. Review the AI-summarized job requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your experience with children and prepare a brief example of how you handle classroom behavior.
