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Assistant Ece Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... or assistant teacher, but communicated to the parent by a teacher, or associate teacher not a ... Qualifications and competencies: * 24 units of ECE/CD, including the core courses. Core courses are ...

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Assistant Ece information

See California salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do assistant ece jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant ece in California is $15.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant ECE and how can they be managed effectively?

Assistant Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) often navigate challenges such as managing diverse classroom behaviors, supporting individual learning needs, and maintaining effective communication with lead teachers and parents. To manage these effectively, it's important to develop strong observation and documentation skills, collaborate closely with the teaching team, and seek feedback regularly. Building positive relationships with children and maintaining flexibility in daily routines also help create a supportive classroom environment. Ongoing professional development can further enhance your ability to adapt to the evolving needs of young learners.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant ECE, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant ECE, you need foundational knowledge in child development, early learning practices, and a relevant certification or diploma in early childhood education. Familiarity with curriculum frameworks, assessment tools, and child safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and teamwork skills help build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues. These skills ensure a supportive learning environment that fosters healthy development and educational growth in young children.

What is the difference between Assistant Ece vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectAssistant EcePreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild Development Associate (CDA) or equivalent, some states require early childhood education creditsTypically a bachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field, CDA may be preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in classrooms, supports lead teachers, works with children under supervisionLeads classroom activities, plans lessons, manages daily routines independently
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare centers, preschools, daycare facilitiesPreschools, private and public early childhood education programs

While both roles focus on early childhood education, Assistant Ece primarily supports lead teachers and assists with daily activities, often requiring childcare credentials. Preschool Teachers take on a more independent teaching role, planning lessons and managing classrooms, usually with a higher level of education. Both positions are vital in early childhood settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What is an assistant ECE?

Assistant ECEs, or Assistant Early Childhood Educators, are professionals who support lead teachers in early childhood education settings such as preschools or childcare centers. They help create a safe, nurturing environment for young children, assist with daily routines, and implement educational activities. Their role often includes supervising children, preparing learning materials, and helping to manage classroom behavior. Assistant ECEs work closely with certified teachers to promote the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children. They may also communicate with parents and contribute to maintaining a positive learning atmosphere.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ece jobs in California?

The most popular types of Ece jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Ece jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Ece job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Ece job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,760 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Assistant ECE Teacher at Learning Jungle Escondido - Hiring Immediately

Learning Jungle USA

Escondido, CA

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Assistant ECE Teacher at Learning Jungle Escondido

$18-20/hr Accrued Paid Time Off Paid Sick Time Paid Company Holidays Childcare Tuition Discount Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance Employer Paid Life Insurance, Long Term Disability, and AD&D Additional Voluntary Insurance Plans 401k with 4% employer match Bi-Weekly pay periods Employee Referrals (earn money for each person you refer to work with us)! Development & Growth opportunities On-The-Job Training and Shadowing

Ignite Curiosity. Grow Potential.
At Learning Jungle, we believe early childhood education lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth. As a global provider of high-quality educational childcare, we are committed to nurturing creativity, independence, and wonder through a play-based, Reggio-inspired approach rooted in the Creative Curriculum.
We are currently seeking a caring, enthusiastic, and dependable Assistant Teacher to support our classrooms serving children from infancy through age 5. In this role, you will partner with lead teachers and support staff to create a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment that fosters each child’s curiosity and love for learning.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Support the Lead Teacher in delivering age-appropriate learning experiences aligned with the Creative Curriculum and Reggio-inspired practices.
  • Assist in planning and preparing materials for daily activities, group time, art, sensory exploration, outdoor play, and classroom routines.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe learning environment in accordance with Title 22 Community Care Licensing Regulations.
  • Supervise children closely, ensuring their safety, well-being, and engagement throughout the day, including during meals, naps, and outdoor time.
  • Model respectful, responsive, and positive interactions with children to support their emotional and social development.
  • Help with daily care routines, including diapering, toileting, handwashing, and feeding, as appropriate to the age group.
  • Observe and support each child’s unique developmental needs, interests, and milestones, and communicate observations to the Lead Teacher.
  • Build positive relationships with families and communicate with them in a professional and supportive manner.
  • Participate in team meetings, training, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
Qualifications:
  • Must meet California Title 22 licensing requirements for Teacher Assistants, which include:
    • At least 6 units in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development (12 units preferred)
  • Previous experience working in a licensed childcare setting preferred
  • Passion for working with young children in a nurturing, play-based learning environment
  • Strong communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented approach
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and a positive attitude
  • Must pass all required California background checks, fingerprint clearance, health screenings, and TB testing
  • Current CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Capable of walking, standing, bending, squatting and kneeling for extended periods.
  • Able to move quickly to respond to children's needs and to ensure child safety.
Why Join Learning Jungle?
  • A welcoming, inclusive team environment focused on growth and creativity
  • Opportunities for continued education, career development, and permit advancement
  • Competitive pay and benefits for part-time and full-time roles
  • Meaningful work that supports young children during their most important years of development
 
Ready to help guide young minds and support joyful, meaningful learning?
Apply today and join Learning Jungle as we inspire the next generation—one child at a time.
This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the position. Learning Jungle is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Learning Jungle is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the HR Department at HR@learningjungle.com. 

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