Job Classification: Full-time; non-exempt
Schedule: 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday (with periodic evenings or weekends)
Wage Range: $16.81 - $19.59 hourly Incremental pay increases as program milestones are completed
This position has multiple vacancies in varying locations.
This position will remain open until filled.
ABOUT EARLY CONNECTIONS LEARNING CENTERS
Early Connections Learning Centers is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high quality early care and education for ALL children. Every position works in coordination to achieve this mission. Since 1897, our work to provide high quality early childhood education has positively impacted thousands of children and families in the Pikes Peak region. Our nationally accredited programs help build a strong foundation for young children to be happy and successful in learning and life.
JOB SUMMARY:
The Registered Apprentice will work full time in a classroom while completing a structured, Federally Registered Apprenticeship Program designed to support the Apprentice in becoming Early Childhood Teacher Qualified. As part of the program requirements, Apprentices must complete 183 hours of education and hands‑on learning (provided during working hours) and 2,000 hours (one year) of classroom‑based experience. Upon successful completion of the program, Apprentices will achieve Teacher Qualification status and are expected to move into a Teacher‑level role as positions become available.
While gaining classroom experience, Registered Apprentice supports classroom teachers in creating a warm, engaging, and developmentally rich environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. The Registered Apprentice plays an essential role in daily classroom routines, child supervision, and the implementation of meaningful learning experiences. This position is ideal for individuals with experience in early childhood settings as well as those who are curious about or beginning a career in Early Childhood Education and want to learn alongside experienced educators.
The Registered Apprentice helps maintain a safe, healthy, and organized classroom while supporting children’s cognitive, social‑emotional, and physical development. In partnership with Lead Teachers and Teachers, this role contributes to strong family relationships and ensures alignment with Colorado Department of Human Services licensing regulations and NAEYC Accreditation Standards. Through hands‑on support and a commitment to nurturing each child’s individual strengths, the Registered Apprentice helps build the foundation for lifelong learning.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Support classroom teachers by assisting with routines, learning experiences, and caregiving tasks, following guidance, and accepting supervision with a collaborative mindset
Participate in the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate activities that promote growth across all learning domains and engaging with children in meaningful, hands‑on ways
Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom and outdoor environment that meets CDHS Licensing, Health and Safety requirements, USDA food and sanitization standards, the NAEYC Cleaning and Sanitation Table, and all Early Connections policies and procedures
Contribute to a warm and inclusive classroom community by demonstrating respect, acceptance, and support for all children and families, including those with diverse backgrounds, abilities, identities, and needs
Follow all Early Connections policies and procedures, Colorado Department of Human Services licensing requirements, and NAEYC standards to ensure high-quality, compliant care and education
Engage in positive, developmentally appropriate interactions with children, fostering curiosity, social‑emotional growth, and a sense of connection
Model professionalism through reliable attendance, respectful communication, and conduct that reflects Early Connections’ mission and values
Participates in all aspects of the Registered Apprenticeship program including required trainings, mentoring, and competency‑based learning
SECONDARY DUTIES
Support positive relationships between children and families by engaging warmly, sharing appropriate information, and maintaining clear professional boundaries
Communicate with classroom staff and cross‑department partners to ensure children’s needs are met and classroom operations run smoothly
Share observations, concerns, and relevant information with co‑teachers and supervisors to support teamwork, continuity of care, and high‑quality practices
Maintain discretion and confidentiality regarding children, families, staff, and program information
Demonstrate a positive, team‑oriented attitude and present yourself in a professional manner aligned with Early Connections’ expectations and values
Demonstrate professionalism in all interactions, maintaining a positive demeanor and presenting a professional appearance
QUALIFICATIONS: Meets Colorado Minimum Rules and Regulations for Teacher Assistants
Prior to employment, candidates must pass federal and state criminal and Colorado Department of Early Childhood background checks, pre‑employment drug screen, physical, and verification of employment, education and/or credentials and, by position, valid driver’s license
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Position requires physical mobility, with or without reasonable accommodation if requested, to perform essential functions of the job, including but not limited to sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, squatting. Apprentice should be able to:
Exert 20 to 40 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently to move objects and occasionally children
Make fast, simple, repeated movements
Endure physically and emotionally working with children aged 6 weeks through school‑age for long periods of time
See objects or movement of objects to one’s side when the eyes are focused forward
See details at a distance and close range
Detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness
Keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position
TRAVEL AND REMOTE WORK
All positions at Early Connections Learning Centers are on site. This position does not qualify for any remote working capability.
CURRENT BENEFITS
Paid Time Off
Minimum of 30 days PTO accrued or awarded in first full year of employment
Paid Family Medical Leave for qualifying individuals – this benefit does not provide 100% wage replacement
Medical insurance – ECLC pays up to 75% of employee premium
Dental and Vision insurance
Free Employee Assistance Program
Childcare Benefit
Substantial discount for childcare: employees pay $75/week for toddlers (12 months - 3 years) and $50/week for Preschool and School age (3 years - 14 years) children who are enrolled at Early Connections Learning Centers
*This benefit depends on having an enrollment opening
Tuition Reimbursement, Continuing Education and Training
Tuition reimbursement of $150 per 3-credit hour course is available to staff enrolled in approved coursework in Early Childhood Education or related to their position and who maintain the required grade point average
Reimbursement may be available for pre‑approved job-related certificate programs
Other Insurance
100% employer‑paid Basic Term Life and AD&D Insurance
Voluntary Short Term Disability Insurance
This position will remain open until filled.
