Assistant Guide

Toddler + Casa Community

Moss + Heart Montessori is seeking a dedicated Assistant Guide to join our team.

Location: Moss + Heart Montessori (4004 NE Grand Ave, Portland, OR)

Start: August/September 2026

Schedule: Monday - Thursday, year-round

Hours: 11 AM - 5 PM

Compensation: Hourly, DOE

Benefits: Paid holidays (school closures: 6 weeks + federal holidays), 2 weeks PTO, 1 week sick pay, healthcare stipend (if desired)

Ideal Candidate:

This position is tailor-made for someone who embodies the principles of Montessori pedagogy and/or RIE philosophy, fostering an environment where children can thrive and grow. We're searching for an individual who exudes warmth, care, and emotional intelligence, coupled with immense patience to support our young learners effectively. 

The ideal candidate will embrace open, clear, and vulnerable communication with the Lead Guide, striking a delicate balance between taking direction and showing initiative. They'll find joy in collaborating with the Lead Guide to create a supportive and enriching learning environment for toddlers aged 12 months to 6 years.

Primary duties include supporting and maintaining the classroom environment, daily tidying & cleaning tasks, facilitating opportunities for independence and peace among the children, and meaningfully engaging with them throughout the day. Responsibilities range from assisting with toileting to preparing materials. This role also involves supporting the Lead Guide and helping children participate in daily routines. The ideal candidate genuinely enjoys working with children and feels comfortable around house cats, who are part of our community too.

We're looking for someone who not only brings their passion and special skills to share with the community but has also familiarized themselves with Moss + Heart Montessori School (MHMS) and believes they would be a great fit, (please read the following webpages: Home and Emotional Intelligence).

Additionally, the ideal candidate will assist in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that promote independence, exploration, and social-emotional growth. They'll foster positive relationships with children, parents, and fellow staff members, ensuring a harmonious and inclusive classroom community while maintaining a safe and organized environment conducive to learning and exploration.

If you're someone who embodies these qualities and is passionate about early childhood education, we'd love to hear from you!

Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

  • Current enrollment in the Central Background Registry

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience caring for multiple children under the age of 3 years

  • Patient, compassionate, and adaptable to the needs of young children

  • Able to practice thoughtful observation before stepping in to assist or redirect

  • Interest in and commitment to supporting Montessori pedagogy and classroom practices

  • Prior experience in a Montessori 3–6 classroom preferred

  • Commitment to continuous professional growth and learning

Required Trainings:

  • Current, hands-on certification in First Aid and Pediatric CPR

  • Introduction to Child Care Health and Safety (ICCHS)

  • Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect (RRCAN)

  • Infants and Toddlers Safe Sleep Policy (IFSSP)

  • Prevention is Better Than Treatment (PBTT)

  • Foundations for Learning (FFL)

  • Food Handlers Card

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications, experience, and desired pay & benefits to mossheartmontessori@gmail.com. Please include "Assistant Guide Application" in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

  • In your cover letter, please also include:

    • How you typically approach peer conflict between children

    • One aspect of a Montessori classroom that you appreciate most

    • Evidence that you familiarized yourself with our school and program through exploring the website before applying

Moss + Heart Montessori is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.