EMPLOYMENT
is a diverse environment where teachers and families of many cultures, languages, and backgrounds come together in a supportive and engaging community.
IMS is a non-profit, independent school located in North Carolina approximately ten minutes south of Duke University and fifteen minutes north of the UNC-Chapel Hill. As part of the Triangle area, Durham is three hours from the beach, two hours from the mountains, and is rich area with outdoor activities, cultural events, and college sports.
Diverse Community
An equal opportunity employer, IMS has diverse staff to serve our diverse student body. Our 2023-2024 student body is 8% African-American or Black, 6% Asian, 7% Hispanic, 35% Multi-racial, and 44% Caucasian.
Competitive Benefits
IMS offers a competitive benefits package to full-time employees. In addition, employees enjoy beautiful classrooms with natural lighting and outdoor access, tuition remission for dependents, small class sizes, and joyful, supportive, and fun co-workers.
Working in Your Native Language
At IMS, faculty and staff have the opportunity to work in their native language while helping children uncover their potential, become bilingual and bicultural, and develop into competent, compassionate and curious global citizens.
Are You an Ideal Candidate for IMS?
- Do you marvel at children? Do you find yourself observing them to see just what they will do and where their inquiries will take them?
- Is your focus helping children uncover and develop their abilities and interests across a variety of disciplines?
- Are you a life-long learner who gets as excited about new opportunities to grow?
- Are you peaceful and joyful?
- Do you consider your multilingual and multicultural background and experience a key to being a strong contributor to our global society?
HOW TO APPLY
Compile the following documents into one complete packet and submit to hiring@imsnc.org, indicating the the job title in the email subject line:
- A cover letter that includes:
- How you came to Montessori education or why you would be interested in a child-centered program that is aligned with the development of the child and that focuses on the social, emotional, and cognitive growth of the child.
- Why you wish to teach or work in a language immersion setting.
- Resume
- List of two professional recommendations and their contact information. References would be contacted only after an interview.
Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position has been filled. IMS reserves the right to close the recruitment at any time. Applicants must already have US work authorization for August through June.
AVAILABLE POSITIONS FOR 2026
Toddler Classroom Assistant & After-School Lead - English - Immediate opening
Job Description
We are seeking a warm, dependable, and motivated individual to join our toddler Montessori classroom as a Classroom Assistant & After-School Lead. This dual-role position supports the lead teacher during the school day and takes the lead in creating a nurturing, engaging after-school environment for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about early childhood education and interested in Montessori philosophy.
Key Responsibilities
Classroom Assistant (Daytime):
- Support the co-lead teachers in maintaining a calm, orderly Montessori environment
- Assist with classroom setup, materials, and daily routines
- Guide toddlers with practical life skills (toileting, handwashing, meals/snacks, etc.)
- Observe and support children’s independence and social development
- Help maintain a clean, safe, and inviting classroom
After-School Lead (Afternoon):
- Plan and lead age-appropriate activities (outdoor play, art, music, quiet play)
- Ensure a safe and positive environment during extended care hours
- Communicate with parents at pickup as needed
- Manage transitions and end-of-day routines
Qualifications
- Experience working with toddlers (preferred)
- Interest in or familiarity with Montessori education (a plus)
- Patient, calm, and nurturing demeanor
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Reliable and punctual
- Strong fluency in written and spoken English
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and engage actively with young children
- Demonstrated interest in and affinity for the Montessori philosophy and IMS’ mission
Preferred (but not required)
- Montessori training or coursework
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Early Childhood Education background
Substitute Teachers
Summary
IMS is looking for English, French, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish speakers who love young children, have experience with these age groups, and are interested in part-time work.
The Position
While the specifics of each day depend on which classroom and teachers need coverage, a typical day might include:
- Assisting the lead teacher when the second classroom teacher is absent
- Supervising children during lunch, on the playground, and at nap time
- Helping children during transitional parts of the day
Hours
Hours vary depending on coverage needs, but are often in the following blocks:
- 8:00AM - 3:00PM
- 8:00AM - 12:30PM
- 10:45AM - 1:30PM
- 2:30 - 5:30PM
We have flexible work times that could be ideal for university students or parents wishing to be available for their children when they return from school.
We will provide training in support of our language immersion and Montessori approach for qualified candidates.
IMS does not discriminate based on age, race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, socio-economic background, family structure, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, or military service in the administration of its policies and program.
