TEACHER ASSISTANT/ FLOAT (PT)
Responsibilities
Who We Are
DCO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to removing barriers to allow all people the opportunity for a life of enrichment and inclusion. Since 1954, we’ve supported infants, children, and adults through therapies, education, and habilitative programs that promote personal growth and meaningful participation in the community.
Our work is guided by our core values: Honor, Empower, Advocate, Respect, and Teamwork. We partner with families, employers, and community members to promote awareness, inclusion, and lifelong learning.
An employee in this class is responsible for the care and well being of young children and includes their instruction as well as assisting the Teacher in providing educational and learning experiences. Work may also include responsibilities for the organization, preparation and use of educational materials and equipment and for clerical duties in and around a classroom. General supervision is provided from the Teacher, Program Director.
Essential Skills & Abilities
- Ability to interact positively and professionally with infants and young children
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- Ability to follow routines, learn tasks quickly, and support classroom structure
- Knowledge of (or willingness to learn) child development stages and behavior support
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
- Ability to lift, carry, and assist children up to 75 pounds
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, sit on the floor, and move frequently throughout the day
- Understanding and practice of universal precautions, safety, and sanitation
- Ability to implement positive behavior support (no physical or verbal punishment permitted)
- Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and coworkers
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct care including toileting, diapering, hygiene, grooming, feeding, and mobility assistance
- Support children in daily developmental activities and learning experiences
- Conduct prepared lessons with individuals or small groups
- Provide one‑to‑one support for children needing additional assistance or calming
- Maintain required child‑to‑adult ratios during classroom time, and playground
- Assist with preparing teaching materials, setting up equipment, and organizing learning spaces
- Complete documentation including incident reports, illness reports, attendance, meal counts, and progress notes
- Clean and sanitize tables, toys, mats, and equipment daily
- Perform other duties as assigned to support classroom operations
Requirements
- High School diploma or equivalent
- Six months of experience working with children in group settings (child care, preschool, camps, church programs, etc.)
- CPR & First Aid certification within 60 days of employment
- Individuals actively completing a GED may be considered
- Non‑smoking requirement: No detectable second‑hand smoke or strong odors
Salary Range
Part‑time employees enjoy a supportive, balanced work environment designed to help you thrive. Benefits include:
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Retirement plan options
- Paid major holidays
- A full week of paid time off during the winter holiday season
- No nights or evening shifts
- Weekends off
- One paid birthday holiday during the month of your birthday
- Paid training and ongoing professional development (if applicable)
Part-Time, T-Th, 7:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.
Salary: $15.00-&16.00/hourly
Apply Today
Your skills can help participants in our Programs learn and grow. Help individuals with and without developmental disabilities reach their full potential and apply today.