Preschool Teacher, ASUM Child Care

ASUM Childcare invites applications for a Preschool Teacher to join their team.The Preschool Teacher will be expected to make decisions in regards to lesson plans, child guidance training and supervising the student staff and caregiver, within our program guidelines and procedures.

The University of Montana is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. In that spirit, we are particularly interested in receiving applications from a broad spectrum of qualified people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

• Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans for the children enrolled.
• Serve as a role model for other caregivers and student aides.
• Train and supervise student staff in their daily duties.
• Establish a rapport with parents in the program, working to best meet their children’s needs.

• CDA (Child Development Associate) credential with at least 12 college credits in Early Childhood Education or at least 24 college credits in Early Childhood Education, with plans and progress toward obtaining, at a minimum, their Early Childhood Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education degree and two (2) years of experience in a licensed or registered childcare program.
• Use of good judgment and ability to remain calm.
• The knowledge of Montana State licensing standards and the ability to apply and enforce them.
• Knowledge of child development, quality early childhood practices, positive child guidance techniques and the care and supervision of children.
• Ability to develop and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans.
• Ability to implement and assess quality early childhood practices.
• Ability to assess children’s development and progress and provide portfolio documentation of that progress.
• Ability to follow written meal preparation and food service standards.
• Knowledge of acceptable safety, sanitation and food handling practices.
• Ability to maintain accurate records.
• Ability to communicate and supervise classroom staff effectively in a constructive and positive way.
• Ability to multi-task, effectively manage time, delegate tasks and prioritize.
• Desire and ability to create and maintain a positive work environment, work as a team with all center staff.
• Ability to communicate effectively with parents.
• Implement parent involvement activities.
• Ability and willingness to accept constructive feedback from parents, co-workers or supervisor.
• Ability to be the leader within the classroom and confidently make decisions.

• Early Childhood Education degree.
• Three (3) or more years of experience in a license child care program.
• Participation in or knowledge of NAEYC Accreditation preferred.

• Participation in or knowledge of STARS for Quality Program.

Position Number:              480090
Work Schedule:                 Full-time, 1.0 FTE (40 Hours a week), Monday through Friday 7:15 am to 3:15 pm, 12 months/year.
Probationary Period:        Six months minimum
Benefits Include:               Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

Complete applications received by the closing date on will be guaranteed consideration; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. 
 
A complete application Includes:

1. Letter of Interest – addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as “Dear Search Committee” or “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
2. Detailed Resume – listing education and describing work experience.
3. Professional References – names and contact information for three (3) professional references.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations. ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law. References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).