Position Overview

The Preschool Assistant Teacher works collaboratively with the preschool team in fulfilling the school’s mission of meeting children’s developmental needs while initiating them into a lifelong, meaningful relationship with the natural world.  Assistant teachers are part of a teaching team of three that oversee up to 2 classroom groups of up to 20 children per group. 

Assistant teachers supervise children with special attention to encouraging positive self-concept and enthusiasm for the discovery process. They keep expectations of children developmentally and individually appropriate, support children during daily routines and transitions and handle discipline issues as opportunities for learning. This role is responsible for setting up and maintaining classroom supplies and supporting lead teachers in carrying out high-quality, nature-based early childhood curriculum. 

Job Functions and Key Responsibilities:

Implementing curriculum & supervising preschool children (65%)

·        Implement emergent curriculum using a constructivist, inquiry-based & Reggio Emilia approach.

·        Support the Lead Teachers in delivering programming with special attention to nature-based education.

·        Facilitate small group activities and lead whole group experiences such as reading a story.

·        Supervise children in work and play in classroom, playground, and nature center grounds.

·        Adhere to the code of Ethics of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Maintenance & Cleaning (25%)

·        Prepare and care for the classroom and playground including snack set-up and cleaning up kitchen and bathroom area after each session.

·        Wash art materials and other equipment after class sessions, tidy centers in preparation for the next session of children and set out and pick up playground equipment.  

·        Provide care for classroom pets including cleaning cages, feeding, and other needs.

• ·        Collaborate and communicate effectively with co-teachers and school administrators.
• ·        Support Lead Teachers in maintaining an attractive, functional, appropriate learning environment that meets quality and safety standards set by Licensing and NAEYC.

Playing an active role in the operation of Dodge Nature Center & Preschool (10%)

·        Attend monthly staff meetings, school events, and in-service training.

·        Work with Dodge Nature Center Naturalists to provide activities for the preschool children on Dodge Nature Center grounds.

·        Ability to quickly learn and use company-specific software and technology tools. 

·        Other Dodge events as requested; including Rock the Barn event on 5/15/2027.

·        Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

·        Qualifies as an assistant teacher as per MN Administrative Rule 9503.0033.

• ·        One year of experience working with young children as an Aide, Student Intern, or similar role.

·        Ability to communicate clearly with parents, co-teachers, and children.

• ·        Ability to supervise children for up to 6 hours per day in a classroom, playground, and throughout the Nature Center grounds in all types of weather.
• ·        Current Pediatric First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain.
• ·        Ability to perform tasks that involve manual labor, including lifting and carrying objects up to 50 pounds, and bending.
• ·        Ability to traverse uneven terrain and spend up to 6 hours per day outside in all types of weather.

Preferred Qualifications

·        Baccalaureate degree in any field from an accredited college or university, or Associate’s degree in Child Development or Early Childhood Education, or a current Child Development Associate credential or willingness to obtain.

• ·        Work experience in a licensed childcare center and/or NAEYC accredited program.
• ·        Work experience or education in nature-based education and/or the Reggio Emilia approach.

Dodge Nature Center and Preschool is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants and staff to bring their diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences to Dodge. We commit to fostering an inclusive, welcoming work environment for all employees.

Job Description Created By: Amy Warzybok

Date: 9.16.2026

To Apply Send Interest Letter and Resume to Preschool Director, Amy Warzybok at awarzybok@dodgenaturecenter.org on or before October 9^th, 2027.