Preschool Teacher

About Early Alpine Academy

Early Alpine Academy is a play-based, relationship-driven early learning program located in the heart of downtown Bozeman. We serve children from infancy through preschool with consistent daily rhythms, a team that truly shows up, and a deep commitment to connection—between teachers and children, between families and caregivers, and within our teaching team itself.

Our classrooms and outdoor space are full of joyful play, hands-on exploration, and rich opportunities for social-emotional growth. Whether we’re stacking blocks, navigating big feelings, or getting messy in the sensory bin, we believe learning happens best when children feel safe, seen, and excited to be here. We work closely with Bozeman’s working families to create a warm, dependable partnership—and a daily experience that feels as good as it is developmentally sound.

About the Role

As the Preschool Assistant Teacher, you’ll bring steady presence, curiosity, and flexibility to a busy and joyful classroom. You’ll partner closely with your Lead Teacher to create a calm, consistent, and engaging environment where children can explore, take risks, and grow. You’ll join in their play with genuine interest, reinforce routines with warmth, and step up with confidence when plans change. This role is perfect for someone who embraces play-based learning, values teamwork, and finds meaning in the small, intentional moments of the day.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Being a calm, grounding presence—helping preschoolers feel safe, seen, and supported through connection, patience, and respect

• Joining children in meaningful play—whether it’s a block tower challenge, dramatic play, or outdoor adventures, following their lead with joy and curiosity

• Supporting consistent daily rhythms—helping with transitions, mealtimes, and activities so children feel secure and engaged

• Assisting in curriculum delivery—leading small group or center-based activities under the Lead Teacher’s guidance, and stepping into the Lead role when needed

• Observing learning moments—staying attuned to children’s needs and interests, and documenting growth in Brightwheel

• Communicating warmly with families—building trust through daily updates, respectful conversation, and a shared investment in their child’s success

• Collaborating with your Lead Teacher—checking in regularly, sharing observations, and working as a united team

• Helping maintain a beautiful, ready learning environment—prepping materials, resetting spaces, and ensuring safety throughout the day

Requirements

• Meets state requirements for early childhood educators, including eligibility for Montana Registry Level 2, the ability to pass background checks, and current (or soon-to-be) CPR/First Aid certification

• Experience working with young children in a group setting

• Physically able to lift, carry, and engage with children throughout the day

• Dependable, punctual, and able to work a consistent 8 AM–4 PM schedule

• Strong communicator—kind, clear, and comfortable with both children and adults

• Calm, flexible, and steady in a busy classroom environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Full-time, hourly role starting at $26 (Additional pay with ECP Registry Levels)

• Paid time off (PTO) starting at 10 days per year, increasing with tenure (15 days after 2 years, 20 days after 5)

• 5 paid sick days annually (in addition to PTO)

• Paid holidays

• 401(k) with employer match – you contribute 6%, and we match 4.5%

• 12 weeks paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child

• Health insurance with employer contribution

• Dental, Vision, Voluntary Life & AD&D, and Accident insurance options

• Health Savings Account (HSA) availability

• Employer-paid Life and AD&D insurance

• Employer-paid Long-Term Disability coverage

• Sabbatical program with a cash bonus and extra time off at 5, 10, and 15 years

• Subsidized childcare at our center