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Substitute Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Substitute Teaching * Provide high-quality, subject-specific instruction and academic support as ... Communicate with supervisors. * Assist staff with center organization. * Support center with ...

Substitute Preschool Teacher

West Linn, OR ยท On-site

$18.12 - $23.56/hr

Meets all state preschool teacher assistant requirements * Super flexible and ready to jump in ... a Substitute Preschool Teacher , you'll be the superhero who swoops in to create a magical, safe ...

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Substitute Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

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How much do substitute assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute assistant in Portland, OR is $17.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substitute assistant?

Substitute Assistants are individuals who temporarily fill in for regular teacher assistants or paraprofessionals in schools when they are absent. Their responsibilities typically include supporting classroom teachers, assisting with student supervision, helping with instructional activities, and providing general clerical support. Substitute Assistants play a crucial role in maintaining the continuity of classroom operations and ensuring students continue to receive support and guidance. They must be adaptable and able to quickly adjust to different classroom environments and routines. Usually, Substitute Assistants are required to have at least a high school diploma and may need to pass background checks and training specific to the school district.

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

To thrive as a Substitute Assistant, you need a basic understanding of classroom management, instructional support, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with educational software, attendance systems, and basic office equipment is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and patience help you effectively support teachers and students in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure smooth classroom operation and continuity of learning in the absence of regular staff.

What is the difference between Substitute Assistant vs Teacher Assistant?

AspectSubstitute AssistantTeacher Assistant
Required credentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require certificationHigh school diploma; some roles prefer associate degree or certification
Work environmentTemporary, short-term assignments in schoolsLong-term or daily support within classrooms
Employer and industry usageSchool districts, educational institutionsSchools, educational programs
Common search intentFinding short-term substitute rolesSeeking ongoing classroom support roles

In summary, a Substitute Assistant typically fills short-term or temporary roles in schools, often with minimal certification requirements. A Teacher Assistant usually works more consistently within classrooms, providing ongoing support, and may require additional certifications or experience. Both roles support educators but differ mainly in duration and job stability.

What challenges might a substitute assistant face when adapting to different classroom environments?

Substitute Assistants often work in a variety of classrooms, which means they must quickly adapt to new routines, teaching styles, and student needs. One common challenge is getting up to speed with lesson plans and classroom management expectations set by the regular teacher. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential, as Substitute Assistants frequently collaborate with both teaching staff and students to ensure continuity of learning. Building rapport quickly and maintaining a supportive atmosphere are key to success in this dynamic role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Substitute jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Substitute jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Substitute Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Substitute Assistant job openings:

ELC Substitute Teacher- Elementary

PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

Forest Grove, OR โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

This is an on-call Substitute Teacher position in the Early Learning Community at Pacific University

Pacific University achieves excellence and distinction by investing in exceptional people to think, care, create, and pursue justice in our world. We embrace discovery in a close and nurturing environment that leads to genuine transformation. Our community is diverse, sustainable, and dedicated to discovery and excellence in teaching, scholarship, and practice.

At Pacific University, we thrive in an extraordinary environment, surrounded by the beauty of the great Pacific Northwest, with campus locations inย Forest Grove,ย Hillsboro, and Eugene. We humbly acknowledge and thank the original caretakers of the lands on which we live, work, teach, and acquire and share knowledge.

ABOUT THE EARLY LEARNING COMMUNITY:ย 

The Early Learning Community (ELC) is a vibrant, joyful place where over 100 children engage in rich, hands-on learning activities from preschool through 4th grade. We believe that giving children access to beautiful classrooms, inspiring curriculum, and master teachers allows them to thrive in school and develop a lifelong love of learning. We work hard to know each and every child as an individual while also building a deep sense of community and belonging. As a demonstration school, we are responsible not only for teaching our students but also for helping to prepare the next generation of educators by serving as a practicum site for Pacific undergraduate and graduate students as well as high school volunteers.

ABOUT THE ROLE:ย 

Classrooms in the elementary grades at the ELC are blended, meaning that two grade levels are combined. In order to provide individualized support for 20-24 students, we have two adults guiding the group - a Lead Teacher who plans and facilitates the curriculum and an Assistant Teacher who provides vital support to ensure that all childrenโ€™s needs are met. On-Call substitute teachers fill in as assistant teachers when one member of the team is out sick or away dfor a planned absence. On-call substitutes do not have guaranteed days or a number of hours per week that they work but are part of a list of available and qualified substitute teachers to whom our teachers may reach out weeks or even months in advance or that morning for same day coverage as needed.ย 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Facilitate learning experiences as outlined in the substitute plans or as directed by the assistant teacher using a hands-on approach to learning. This might include leading small groups of children during literacy/math times or supervising the entire group during lunch or recess.ย 
  • Interact with children in ways that respect each childโ€™s individuality and nourish growth in intellectual, socio-emotional, artistic, and physical domains.
  • Communicate questions, concerns, or feedback for families to the Assistant Teacher and Head of School. Share final notes at the end of the day with classroomโ€™s Lead Teacher so that they may address any questions/issues when they return.ย 
  • Assist throughout the facility with the maintenance of orderliness and positive aesthetic. This may include washing classroom dishes/art materials, tidying the classroom environment, and/or running laundry as directed by the assistant teacher.ย 
  • Maintain and nurture positive space and effective relationships with children, teachers and visitors of the Early Learning Community.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must be at least 18 years old.ย 
  • Must be enrolled in the Department of Early Learning and Careโ€™s (DELCโ€™s) Central Background Registry.
  • Must have a minimum of 6 months working in a licensed group care environment with at least 10ย  toddler, preschool, or early elementary level.
  • Able to sit, bend and lift up to 50 pounds and move quickly around a classroom and playground.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & BEHAVIORS:

  • Demonstrated ability to successfully manage a group of at least 10 children during unstructured play to both ensure safety and support conflict resolution as the need arises.ย 
  • Strong oral English communication skills.ย 
  • High degree of reliability and commitment to work hours scheduled.
  • Can establish and maintain pleasant, effective working relationships with children and colleagues.
  • Flexibility of hours as this is an โ€œon-callโ€ position; ELC staff may schedule with substitutes months in advance or reach out the morning of to check availability that day.ย 
  • Able to work independently with a high degree of confidentiality.

IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Previous experience as a lead, assistant, or substitute teacher.
  • Has already completed required โ€œsafety setโ€ trainings for licensed child care - Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect, Introduction to Child Care Health and Safety, Foundations for Learning- and has a current Food Handlerโ€™s license and CPR/First Aid certification.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please upload your resume and cover letter along with your Paycom application.ย  Persons who do not follow and complete the application process are not applicants and will not be considered for employment.

Only qualified applicants will be considered for an interview. This position is for an on call position and interviews may not happen right away, if at anytime you would like to withdraw your application due to availability change please do so via your paycom account.

Offers of employment at Pacific University are contingent upon proof of eligibility to work in the United States and completion of a background check.

At Pacific University, we are dedicated to offering experiences that are authentic, holistic, equity-minded, and responsive. Our communal success rests on the recognition that complex problems and effective solutions are best approached by teams with a variety of diverse perspectives. and life experiences. As we continue to develop our equity practices, we actively promote access to opportunities and equitable pay for all employees.

We, who make up Pacific University, aspire to become a community of purpose where everyone is enabled to be wholly and comfortably who they are; accountable for inclusive behaviors and practices; built on trust, civility, care, openness, and honest conversations often around critical subjects. We know that these values are critical to prepare for a global world with complex problems, through an asset-based mindset so that every one is afforded an opportunity to succeed. We believe in fostering a workplace where every employee is respected, their contributions are valued, and they are provided opportunities to succeed.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT

Pacific University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to complying with all applicable laws, including those concerning employment and workplace policies. We are committed to fostering a non-discriminatory and inclusive work environment. We are proud to encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from historically underrepresented groups.

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY

Pacific University makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age, religion or religious creed, disability, sex, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law. Applicable laws include, but are not limited to, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Questions or complaints may be directed to the Vice President for Academic Affairs at 2043 College Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116 or via email at provost@pacificu.edu.