Job Title

Assistant Teacher (Child Care Center)

Discover a rewarding career path dedicated to inspiring and educating the next generation of learners.

Expected Annual Pay (Texas)

$27,630

Average salary range

Job Outlook (Texas)

+12%

Employment growth

Level of Education Required

High school diploma or GED

Minimum requirement

Credentials or Licenses Required

None

Licenses / Certificates

Work Experience Typically Required

Previous experience working with young children is preferred but not always required.

Related experience needed

What is this role responsible for day to day?

An assistant teacher in a child care center supports the lead teacher and helps maintain a safe and organized classroom. Day‑to‑day responsibilities often include:

  • Supervising and caring for children during daily activities
  • Assisting with lesson plans and classroom routines
  • Helping with meals, toileting, and cleanup
  • Setting up activities and learning materials
  • Supporting positive behavior and social skills
  • Communicating with families as directed by the lead teacher

Career Snapshots

Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion

Lily

Lily

Lily worked as a babysitter in high school and then became an assistant teacher at a child care center. She is taking early childhood college classes while working. She likes learning classroom routines and gaining hands‑on experience. When she finishes her degree, she plans to apply to be a pre-K teacher in a public school.

Andrea

Andrea

Andrea started her career as a camp counselor during high school. She really liked working with children and moved into an assistant teacher role. She has a high school diploma and learned most skills on the job. She plans to stay in child care long‑term and is getting the professional development she needs to become a lead teacher.

Sofia

Sofia

Sofia worked for a long time as a nanny before becoming an assistant teacher in an infant classroom. She loves to help babies grow! This role is helping her build classroom skills and learn the child care industry. She plans to use this experience to open her own home-based child care program in the future.

What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?

People in this role are dependable, organized, and able to take instructions from others. They communicate clearly, work well on a team, and stay attentive to children’s needs throughout the day.

What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?

People in this role often previously worked as:

Many assistant teachers previously worked as:

  • Babysitters or nannies
  • Classroom aides or volunteers
  • Afterschool staff

What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?

With experience, people in this role may move into:

With more experience and education, assistant teachers may move into roles such as:

  • Lead Teacher
  • Assistant Director
  • Program coordinator
“As an assistant teacher, I help with classroom care, lessons, and parent communication. It’s more responsibility than people expect.” — Child Care Assistant Teacher and TECPDS Study Participant