Early Childhood Assistant
Casa de las Estrellas is seeking a full-time Preschool Assistant to support our teaching team in the spaces dedicated to children aged 2.5 to 6 years. The ideal candidate brings warmth, flexibility, and a loving presence, and is committed to the holistic development of young children through collaborative work, respect for childhood rhythms, and meaningful support both inside and outside the classroom.
This position plays a key role in maintaining the daily rhythm of our preschool groups, supporting routines, transitions, moments of free play, artistic activities, and personal care, while fostering children's well-being in alignment with the principles of Waldorf education.
About the Role
The Mhe Preschool Assistant will work closely with lead teachers to support the overall development of the children and the smooth functioning of the classroom, offering assistance with daily routines, gentle transitions, artistic activities, free play, and outdoor time.
The assistant will provide individualized attention when needed, contribute to an atmosphere of emotional support and care, and help uphold group agreements and boundaries with warmth and clarity.
This role also includes accompanying festivals, meetings, and special events, supporting the school’s rhythm and community life throughout the year.
Who We’re Looking For
Has experience working with young children (ages 2.5 to 6) in educational or childcare settings
Holds a degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (preferred)
Is bilingual in Spanish and English (functional or intermediate level)
Works collaboratively with initiative, sensitivity, flexibility, and responsibility
Brings a loving and confident presence, and knows how to set boundaries with tenderness and clarity
Enjoys supporting children in their free play, daily rhythms, artistic activities, and care of the environment
Is familiar with or eager to learn about Waldorf education and respectful approaches to child development
Is able to observe attentively, listen with empathy, and respond calmly and clearly to children’s needs
Core Responsibilities
Support the preschool lead teachers in daily group routines, including caregiving moments, meals, rest time, free play, and artistic activities
Prepare and organize materials and crafts
Substitute for lead teachers when necessary, following their guidance and classroom plans
Accompany individual children or small groups as directed by the teaching team
Supervise children during outdoor play, meals, rest time, and school outings, always ensuring their well-being and safety
Help maintain a clean, safe, respectful, and aesthetically harmonious environment that supports the child’s holistic development
Participate in pedagogical meetings, ongoing training, school events, and festivals as needed
Support children with diverse developmental needs, as directed by the lead teacher
Assist in the implementation of rhythms, habits, and group agreements, with clarity, continuity, and sensitivity to the needs of early childhood
Compensation & Professional Development
This iFull-time salaried position
Compensation based on experience and salary structure
Weekly mentorship and training opportunities
Ongoing professional development in Waldorf education
Salary increase of up to 30% based on academic degrees, Waldorf training, and seniority
Workplace Environment & Community
AssistLogistical support for finding housing (non-financial)
Daily meals during school hours (morning snack and lunch)
Access to spaces for artistic, physical, and inner development
Participation in a warm, supportive, and collaborative teaching culture
Employment Benefits
Full tuFull tuition remission for children of staff (only food and materials are paid)
Permanent contracts (no annual termination or liquidation required)
Social Security & Institutional Support
Enrollment in Costa Rican Social Security (CCSS)
Contributions to JUPEMA (National Teachers’ Pension Fund)
Life insurance through INS
Workplace risk insurance through INS
Paid vacation in accordance with Costa Rican labor law
Year-end bonus (aguinaldo)
Institutional support for continuing education and training
How to Apply
To apply, please send the following documents to:
empleo@casadelasestrellas.org
Letter of interest (including a short biography)
Curriculum vitae (including contact information for three references)
We look forward to receiving your application!