Assistant Preschool Teacher

The Orchard School is a private preschool in West Caldwell, NJ seeking a part-time Assistant Preschool Teacher to support classrooms across the program.

This is a flexible, support-based role working with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. The Assistant Teacher will help maintain classroom routines, support lead teachers, and step into different classrooms as needed.

This position is ideal for someone beginning or continuing a career in early childhood education who is reliable, adaptable, and interested in growing into a full-time role.

Schedule: Part-time to start, with opportunity to transition to full-time

Pay: $16.00–$18.00 per hour based on education and experience

• Support lead teachers in daily classroom activities
• Assist with supervision of children ages 6 weeks to 5 years
• Help maintain classroom routines and transitions
• Provide hands-on support during play, meals, and activities
• Assist with toileting, diapering, and self-help routines
• Help manage classroom behavior and support emotional regulation
• Step into different classrooms as needed for coverage
• Assist with outdoor play in all seasons
• Maintain classroom cleanliness and organization
• Collaborate with staff to ensure smooth daily operations

• Interest in early childhood education as a long-term field
• Ability to work with infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children
• Comfortable with diapering, toileting, and caregiving responsibilities
• Flexible and adaptable to different classrooms and schedules
• Reliable, punctual, and consistent attendance
• Ability to follow direction and support classroom leadership
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, active classroom environment
• Willingness to transition to full-time when a position becomes available

• 6+ months experience in a childcare or classroom setting
• CDA or coursework in Early Childhood Education
• Experience working with infants
• Experience in play-based or center-based programs
• Interest in pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education

• Opportunity to transition into a full-time position
• Scheduled raises after 6 months and annually
• Additional raises with completed credentials
• Support for continued education through Grow NJ Kids
• Hands-on training and classroom experience