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Preschool Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Preschool Associate Teacher

Tracy, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Associate Teacher are members of the teaching team who share responsibility for the care and education of an assigned group of children/classroom. There may be more than one person designated as an ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Milagro, NM

$14.50 - $20/hr

Has an Associate Teacher Permit or higher. * HS/EHS/MSHS/State-Braided Associate Teachers must also meet at least one of the following criteria: * Have a child development associate (CDA) credential ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Paso Robles, CA

$16 - $22.25/hr

Has an Associate Teacher Permit or higher. * HS/EHS/MSHS/State-Braided Associate Teachers must also meet at least one of the following criteria: * Have a child development associate (CDA) credential ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Parlier, CA

$14.75 - $20.50/hr

Has an Associate Teacher Permit or higher. * HS/EHS/MSHS/State-Braided Associate Teachers must also meet at least one of the following criteria: * Have a child development associate (CDA) credential ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Dixon, CA · On-site

$17.69 - $26.54/hr

Associate Teacher are members of the teaching team who share responsibility for the care and education of an assigned group of children/classroom. There may be more than one person designated as an ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$17.69 - $26.54/hr

Associate Teacher are members of the teaching team who share responsibility for the care and education of an assigned group of children/classroom. There may be more than one person designated as an ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Tracy, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Associate Teacher are members of the teaching team who share responsibility for the care and education of an assigned group of children/classroom. There may be more than one person designated as an ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Poway, CA

$16.25 - $22.50/hr

Has an Associate Teacher Permit or higher. * HS/EHS/MSHS/State-Braided Associate Teachers must also meet at least one of the following criteria: * Have a child development associate (CDA) credential ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Greenfield, CA

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Has an Associate Teacher Permit or higher. * HS/EHS/MSHS/State-Braided Associate Teachers must also meet at least one of the following criteria: * Have a child development associate (CDA) credential ...

Preschool Associate Teacher

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Associate Teacher are members of the teaching team who share responsibility for the care and education of an assigned group of children/classroom. There may be more than one person designated as an ...

Showing results 41-60

Preschool Associate information

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How much do preschool associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for preschool associate in the United States is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a preschool associate?

Preschool Associates are educational professionals who support lead teachers in early childhood classrooms, typically working with children ages 3 to 5. They assist with implementing lesson plans, supervising activities, and ensuring the safety and well-being of the children. Preschool Associates also help with classroom organization, behavior management, and fostering a positive learning environment. Their role is crucial in promoting the social, emotional, and cognitive development of young children.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a preschool associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preschool Associate, you need a solid understanding of early childhood development, basic teaching strategies, and often a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent experience. Familiarity with classroom management tools, lesson planning software, and adherence to state licensing requirements is typically required. Patience, creativity, and strong communication skills are essential for engaging young children and collaborating with parents and colleagues. These skills and qualities are crucial for fostering a safe, supportive, and enriching learning environment for preschoolers.

What are some common challenges a preschool associate may face when supporting young children's development?

Preschool Associates often encounter challenges such as managing varying attention spans, addressing different learning needs, and helping children develop social skills. Balancing the needs of multiple children while maintaining a positive and safe classroom environment can require strong communication and patience. Additionally, Preschool Associates work closely with lead teachers to implement lesson plans and may need to adapt activities to keep children engaged. These challenges are excellent opportunities for professional growth and developing valuable classroom management skills.

What is the difference between Preschool Associate vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectPreschool AssociatePreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications preferredEarly childhood education certification or associate's degree
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, childcare facilitiesPreschools, private or public early childhood education settings
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare providers, early education programsPreschools, early childhood education institutions
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with daily activities, supervise children, support lead teachersPlan and implement educational activities, manage classroom, assess children's progress

While both roles support early childhood development, Preschool Associates typically assist teachers and focus on supervision and basic care, whereas Preschool Teachers are responsible for planning educational activities and managing the classroom. The roles often overlap, but Preschool Teachers usually require more formal education and certification.

Can I become a preschool associate with an associate's degree?

Yes, a preschool associate typically needs at least an associate's degree in early childhood education or a related field. Some positions may also require relevant experience, certifications like CPR, and a background check. Having strong communication skills and patience is important for working with young children.

What cities are hiring for Preschool Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Preschool Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Preschool jobs?

The most popular types of Preschool jobs are:

What states have the most Preschool Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Preschool Associate jobs include:

Preschool Associate Teacher

Catalyst Kids

Tracy, CA • On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Catalyst Kids rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 225 rated education and training


Job description

Catalyst teaching staff support the planning and implementation of Catalyst's programming for children ranging in age from infant, toddler, pre-school, kinder, and school age depending on the location. Teachers must be able to facilitate a variety of age appropriate activities, support children's social emotional development, and ensure children are supervised at all times in a healthy and safe environment.
Essential Functions:
  • Create and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum supported by learning foundations that are directly connected to their interests and promote positive child development
  • Create, implement, and maintain intentional, enriched, and supportive learning environments and quality experiences that are age appropriate for all children
  • Provide excellent customer service by establishing authentic connections and reciprocal, culturally responsive relationships with children, youth, families, schools, communities, and center/classroom team
  • Keep children healthy and safe by ensuring proper supervision, positive interactions, healthy habits, and excellent compliance
  • Work collaboratively with fellow staff by connecting work place values, education, and experience to provide the highest quality programs and creative workplaces

Work Environment:
All teaching staff are expected to demonstrate behaviors that are essential for successful programs and environment including the following:
  • Positive interactions with children and youth
  • Maintain kind, respectful, and safe emotional/physical environments for children
  • Be on time and present on a regularly scheduled basis
  • Be active in outdoor and indoor programs
  • Be physically and mentally capable of interacting with children up to 13 years of age, meeting all their needs and ensuring their safety
  • Be aware of and implement safety guidelines; report any health & safety issues or incidents to management, and remain calm if providing first aid (as needed) during emergency situations

Physical & Environmental Conditions:
Teaching staff are responsible for various program elements on a daily basis and will be exposed to indoor and outdoor elements. Teaching staff may be required to:
  • Visually insect environment for hazards to children; identify hazards and implement preventative actions (i.e. set up cones to limit play area) to maintain a safe environment for children
  • Be comfortable with occasional loud noise in our outside the classroom during activities
  • Be comfortable with frequent bending, lifting, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
  • Push, lift, carry, and hold various objects up to 15 lbs. - by individual or team effort - such as equipment carts, emergency back packs, food coolers, classroom furnishings, and other similar program materials
  • Work inside the classroom or outside the room in all weather conditions which are safe for children
  • Traverse various terrains (grass, blacktop, dirt) and heights (ladders, playgrounds) depending on the school outdoor environment
  • Adapt to the physical level of children (i.e. sitting on the floor, kneeling, squatting) for activities and problem-solving interactions
  • Supervise field trips to destinations such as aquatic parks, beaches, and trampoline parks

Qualifications & Experience:
Associate Teacher are members of the teaching team who share responsibility for the care and education of an assigned group of children/classroom. There may be more than one person designated as an Associate Teacher for each group of children.
Education
Education and permit requirements may vary by center needs/require age group specific units depending on the program, such as Infant, Toddler, School-Age, Title 5 or Title 22 status.
Associate Teacher education/permit requirements:
  • 12-24 postsecondary semester or equivalent quarter units in ECE, CD, or related field with passing grades of C- or better. OR
  • Associate Teacher Permit or above issues by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

Experience & Skills
  • 6-12 months of experience in a group care environment where care/teaching was provided for a consistent age group is preferred
  • Effective problem solving, conflict resolution, classroom management, and communication with children and families
  • Effective organization, time management, curriculum, and assessment documentation (lesson plans, portfolios, and anecdotal notes)
  • Ability to work alongside colleagues and maintain a professional team environment
  • Current adult and infant/child CPR & First Aid certification is preferred
  • Bilingual/multilingual language preference based on individual center needs

Shift Type: Full Time
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
What We Offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
  • 401(k) Retirement plan and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Personal Health Advocate
  • Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Commuter pre-tax benefit
  • Discounted childcare
  • Access to the Calm app
  • Tickets at Work employee discounts
  • Be constantly in a learning and growth process with training and professional growth advisory

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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