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Kindergarten Teacher Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) Gems seeks a Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Fellow for the 2026-2027 school ... Collaborate with teaching assistants and fellow educators to meet individual student needs and ...

Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) Gems seeks a Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Fellow for the 2026-2027 school ... Collaborate with teaching assistants and fellow educators to meet individual student needs and ...

Teacher Prekindergarten

Newark, NJ · On-site

$65K - $93K/yr

As a Pre-K Teacher, your prime responsibility is to teach our scholars the fundamental concepts ... Plans and coordinates the work of aides, teacher assistants, and other paraprofessionals.

Teacher Prekindergarten

Newark, NJ · On-site

$64K - $92K/yr

As a Pre-K Teacher, your prime responsibility is to teach our scholars the fundamental concepts ... Plans and coordinates the work of aides, teacher assistants, and other paraprofessionals.

Showing results 21-40

Kindergarten Teacher Assistant information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do kindergarten teacher assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for kindergarten teacher assistant in Rutherford, NJ is $16.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kindergarten teacher assistant?

Kindergarten Teacher Assistants are educational professionals who support classroom teachers in managing and instructing young children, typically aged 5 to 6, in a kindergarten setting. Their duties often include helping prepare learning materials, assisting with classroom activities, supervising students, and providing individual attention to children who need extra help. They play a key role in creating a positive and safe learning environment, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to succeed. Additionally, they may help with administrative tasks and communicate with parents about students' progress.

What does a kindergarten teacher assistant do?

A kindergarten teacher’s assistant provides support to the teacher in a classroom. As a kindergarten assistant teacher, you work with five-year-old and six-year-old students. Your duties depend on the needs and lesson plans of the teacher. You typically help set up the classroom and obtain the necessary materials for the day. Your responsibilities also include cleaning and organizing after classes and maintaining student records. During the school day, you assist with lessons and help the children participate in classroom activities. You monitor behavior and participation and help children who need assistance or have behavioral issues.

What does a typical day look like for a kindergarten teacher assistant, and how do they support the lead teacher?

A typical day for a Kindergarten Teacher Assistant involves helping set up classroom activities, supervising children during lessons and playtime, and providing individual attention to students who need extra support. They assist the lead teacher with classroom management, facilitate group projects, and help with daily routines such as snack time and cleanup. Teacher Assistants often prepare learning materials and may communicate with parents about student progress. Collaboration with the lead teacher and other staff is essential to create a positive and productive learning environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kindergarten teacher assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kindergarten Teacher Assistant, you need a background in early childhood education, basic classroom management skills, and often a relevant certification such as a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Familiarity with educational software, learning management systems, and classroom technology is useful in supporting teachers and engaging young learners. Patience, effective communication, and a nurturing attitude are essential soft skills for building trust and fostering a positive classroom environment. These skills and qualities ensure that children receive appropriate support, guidance, and encouragement during their formative educational years.

What is the difference between Kindergarten Teacher Assistant vs Preschool Teacher Assistant?

AspectKindergarten Teacher AssistantPreschool Teacher Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer CDA or equivalentHigh school diploma; CDA preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic or private elementary schools, kindergarten classroomsPreschools, early childhood education centers
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutionsPreschools, daycare centers
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for early childhood support rolesSimilar roles in early childhood education

The main difference between a Kindergarten Teacher Assistant and a Preschool Teacher Assistant lies in the work environment and age group served. Kindergarten Teacher Assistants support children in kindergarten classrooms, focusing on early elementary education, while Preschool Teacher Assistants work with younger children in preschool settings. Both roles require similar credentials and are essential in early childhood education, but they serve different age groups and educational stages.

What do you need to be a kindergarten teacher assistant?

To become a kindergarten teacher assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some states or schools may require additional certification or training. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with young children are essential. Some positions may also require background checks and basic knowledge of classroom tools or educational activities.

What qualifications do you need for a kindergarten teacher assistant?

A kindergarten teacher assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring additional coursework or certification in early childhood education. Relevant skills include patience, communication, and the ability to work with young children, and some employers may prefer prior experience or a child development associate (CDA) credential.

What are popular job titles related to Kindergarten Teacher Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ?

For Kindergarten Teacher Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kindergarten Teacher Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Kindergarten Teacher Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:

What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Kindergarten Teacher Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Kindergarten Teacher Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Kindergarten Teacher Assistant job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,053 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

UPK Teacher Assistant Pre-K

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges

Livingston, NJ • On-site

$31K - $35K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

We are an all - inclusive organization joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. As a growing, mission focused, and future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven, candidate to join our team. We are currently seeking a dedicated and motivated Pre-K Teacher Assistant to join our team. Under the guidance of the Child Care Director and Lead Teacher, the Teacher Assistant supports the implementation of classroom curriculum and activities, and may assume leadership in the Lead Teacher's absence. This role ensures a high-quality experience for children and families, grounded in the YMCA core values of honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.
Note that this position begins in September of 2026 and ends in June of 2026. If you are interested in multiple roles, we will be adding new positions across multiple departments with the opening of our new West Essex YMCA, in December of 2026! Continue to check our careers page for updates!
Requirements
Essential Functions:
  • Assist the Lead Teacher in maintaining the organization/appearance and décor of the assigned classroom (bulletin boards, displays, storage areas, general classroom cleanliness, etc.).
  • Assist Lead Teacher in implementing an age appropriate curriculum.
  • Work with different age groups and classes upon request as needed.
  • Assist the Lead Teacher in maintaining healthy and safe classroom environment of children.
  • Participate in Parent Advisory Committee and YMCA sponsored special events.
  • Participate in staff meetings, trainings and workshops to enhance professional growth.
  • Provide consistent interaction, encouragement, nurturance for all children on all levels, Floors, sitting at tables, etc.)
  • Assist in YMCA fund raising activities and special events.
  • Model relationship-building skills in all interactions. Assist in response to all parent inquiries in a timely manner.
  • Attend trainings and meetings in absence of Lead Teacher, and at other times as requested and appropriate.
  • Actively participates in Summer Camp programs.
  • Demonstrate and model the YMCA's four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
  • Exhibit personal and professional behavior in a manner consistent with the best interests of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association
  • Performs such other job-related duties as may be periodically assigned.

Requirements and Qualifications:
  • CDA or 60 college credits/degree in Education preferred.
  • Experience in assisting with curriculum implementation and being a contributing team member is essential.
  • Maintain training requirements as required by the Office of Licensing.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, parents and youth.
  • Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
  • Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
  • First-Aid, CPR and AED certification within 30 days of hire date.
  • Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.

Benefits:
Full-Time
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off (PTO), paid sick leave, paid holidays, a legal plan, long-term disability, life insurance, 12% retirement benefits upon eligibility, a 403 (b) plan, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, Metro Y program discounts, and complimentary use of YMCA facilities. Full-time employees may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
Salary Description
$31,000-$35,000 annually