Employment

Work with the Co-op

UO Student Staff Jobs:

The Co-op Family Center provides employment for University of Oregon students (including work study employment). If you have an interest in working at the Co-op as a Teacher Assistant, Teacher Aide, Kitchen Aide or Receptionist, please fill out the application listed below. We look forward to meeting you and having you join the Co-op family!

Co-op Family Center Educator Description

As an educator, have you dreamed of tapping into your CREATIVE and INQUISITIVE side? Do you have a life-long commitment to learning about the world alongside others (adults and children)? Are you drawn to advocating for the rights and capabilities of young children? If so, please continue reading to hear a little more about our unique and diverse community of learners here at the Co-op Family Center!

We are a nonprofit Early Childhood School and we have been serving families with children infant (8 weeks) to school-age (up to 5th grade) for over 40 years. We are a contracted program through the University of Oregon and as a cooperative, we offer many ways to involve and partner with parents, other family members and people from around the Eugene community.

We are inspired by the teachings of the REGGIO EMILIA philosophy and also uphold many theories and practices taught by Constructivism, Democratic Education, and Magda Gerber. We believe in the centrality of meaningful relationships and authentic experiences. Our classroom environments are not only beautiful, they also support and reflect the ideas, lives and interests of the children as we follow their lead and build our curriculum around their growing questions and theories throughout the year.

We value the role of FINE ARTS in our program as an avenue to encourage the endless ways there are to express yourself and your ideas. SCIENCE investigations, innovations and discoveries are also an exciting part of our days and NATURE offers us the greatest classroom! Teachers model the role of RESEARCHER with the children and strive to truly listen, communicate and collaborate with each other as we tell our stories.

So, are you ready to join our incredible team of teachers? Are you inspired to be part of a vibrant community that celebrates childhood and culture in a joyful, play-based climate? We hope so and if you are, then the details and qualifications are explained below. Men and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs in childcare and we encourage anyone who is interested in applying to think broadly about your background and skills for this role. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and as an inclusive workplace we value multiple approaches and points of view. We strive to build a culture where everyone feels welcome and encouraged to be their full authentic selves.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience:

- Pediatric CPR and First Aid Certification, Food Handler’s card and all other state required Safety Set trainings (or willingness to obtain)

- All applicants must meet state specific guidelines for the role of Head Teacher:

  • Associates or Bachelors’ level degree in Child Development or Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education or Special Education (or an equivalent program)

OR

  • At least two years of qualifying teaching experience, with at least one year as a teacher in a Certified Child Care Center or comparable group care program, in care of the age group they will work with

OR

  • A combination of work and school experience

OR

  • Documentation of attaining at least Step 8.5 in the Oregon Registry

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge and/or practice of the Reggion Emilia philosophy
  • Experience supervising a classroom and support staff
  • Ability and willingness to drive our buses to transport children to and from public school programs or on field trips and special activities
  • Knowledge and practice of Nonviolent Communication and/or Mindful Practices
  • Knowledge of technology programs and tools (particularly Microsoft Office) and the ability to troubleshoot issues that arise

Benefits our teachers enjoy

Benefits:

· Medical, dental and vision insurance

· Options to purchases supplemental coverage through AFLAC

· Childcare discount

· Paid time off (Sick pay and Vacation)

· Employee Assistance Program through Canopy

· Education and Professional Development support

· Life insurance

· 403(b) retirement and investment plan with employer contribution and match options

· Meals during your shift (amazing vegetarian menu)

· Excellent classroom ratios

Pay rate:

$16.00-18.00/hour based on experience and education

*** We currently also offer a sign on bonus of $1000 (paid incrementally). ***

Hours:

35-40 hours/week