Toddler Assistant 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

This role is about rhythm, presence, and partnership. As the Assistant Teacher in our toddler room, you’ll bring calm energy to a busy space—helping children feel safe, known, and cared for. You’ll support the same caregiving routines each day—diapering, meals, naps—with steadiness and care. You’ll follow the Lead Teacher’s guidance, work together as a team, and help create strong, trusting relationships with families through warm, consistent communication. If you love joining toddlers in their world—and you find meaning in doing the small things well—this might be the role for you.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Being a steady, grounding presence for toddlers—helping them feel safe, seen, and cared for through tone, pacing, and consistent connection

• Joining children in meaningful play—from building block towers to splashing in water tables, you’ll follow their lead with joy and curiosity

• Supporting consistent routines—doing the same caregiving tasks day in and day out (diapering, meals, naps, transitions) with patience and care

• Communicating thoughtfully with families—building trust through daily updates, respectful conversation, and a genuine interest in their child’s needs

• Collaborating closely with your Lead Teacher—checking in regularly, sharing observations, and working as a united front for the classroom

• Helping toddlers navigate big feelings—by staying calm, offering connection, and modeling emotional regulation

• Noticing and documenting growth—by observing children with curiosity and logging meaningful moments in Brightwheel

• Pitching in wherever you’re needed—whether it’s prepping materials, wiping down a table, or offering a quiet lap in a tough moment

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 toddlers or 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