Early Childhood Educator Assistant (2x positions available)

Residential Services and Childcare Services

Position 1: Continuing, full-time

*Position 2: Fixed-term, full-time parental leave replacement until 20 February 2026 (may be extended). The temporary role can be offered as a fixed-term (external applicants) or as a secondment opportunity (UNE current staff)

$62,755 to $71,593 per annum (HEO3)

Plus 17% employer superannuation

Salary packaging options are available

10 days Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and ceremonial leave per annum

5 weeks annual leave plus Christmas week shutdown, per annum plus other generous leave entitlements including Christmas shutdown.

Armidale based role. Free on campus parking

Applicants must have appropriate Australian work rights for the duration of this position (UNE will not provide sponsorship for this position)

*Further information in relation to Position 2: This position is a parental leave replacement and the appointment is subject to the staff member’s leave arrangements. Should the staff member on parental leave vary their return to work arrangements, this contract may be terminated earlier by giving four weeks’ notice.

Current UNE Staff: In taking up this appointment, the appointee will need to seek approval from the Head of Cost Centre to be released from their substantive position for the duration of the secondment.

Acknowledgement of Country

The University of New England (UNE) is a regionally based, globally networked university renowned for the quality of its student experience and the excellence of its research specialisations. In addition, UNE pioneered teaching to external students making it the most experienced provider of distance and innovative online education.

UNE emphasises its people, staff and students' growth and development. We aspire to be a leader in innovation and change and a centre for the Armidale and the North-West communities.

Equity, diversity and inclusion are central to the core values of UNE and we are committed to engaging, supporting and growing a richly diverse workforce. From the Oorala Aboriginal Centre at the heart of our campus, to the inclusive organisations such as the UNE Ally Network, the UNE Women’s Society, and the many international cultural groups - all will feel valued and respected at UNE.

You will embody the UNE values and strive to be Open, Enquiring, Exceptional and Making a Difference. Additionally, you will be committed to achieving the goals embedded in the Future Fit Strategic Plan 2021-2030.

About the role

As an Early Childhood Educator Assistant, you will support the delivery of high-quality education and care for children enrolled at our service. Working under the guidance of Early Childhood Teachers and Room Leaders, you will help implement engaging programs that align with our centre’s philosophy, policies, and the National Quality Framework.

In this role, you’ll collaborate closely with fellow educators, Room Leaders, the Educational Leader, and the Nominated Supervisor to create a positive and inclusive environment. Your contribution will help ensure the best possible outcomes for every child in our care.

About you

You are a caring and enthusiastic early childhood professional, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for children aged 0–5 years. Your experience in long day care or centre-based settings has equipped you with a solid understanding of the National Quality Standards and Early Years Learning Framework, and you’re confident supporting curriculum development and documenting children’s learning.

You are a collaborative team player who builds positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Your excellent communication and interpersonal skills enable you to work flexibly and contribute to a supportive team environment.

With a proactive approach, you manage your time effectively, use your initiative, and are comfortable with a range of computer programs and childcare-specific software. You are committed to ongoing professional learning and demonstrate integrity, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility in all aspects of your work.

Above all, you are passionate about supporting children’s wellbeing, learning, and development, and are ready to make a positive impact as part of the Yarm Gwanga team.

About the Centre

Yarm Gwanga is the University of New England’s approved early childhood education and care service, proudly supporting both the University and the wider Armidale community. We offer high-quality programs for children aged 8 weeks to 5 years at our Preschool /Early Learning Centre, and for children aged 5 to 12 years through our Vacation Care service.

Operating within the National Quality Framework, our centre is staffed by a dedicated team of qualified educators, committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. With approval to care for up to 56 children in our early learning centre and a vibrant vacation care program, Yarm Gwanga is a place where children thrive and educators make a real difference.

We currently have two exciting opportunities for Early Childhood Educator Assistants to join our passionate team.

About Armidale

Armidale is an attractive and vibrant city that combines all the features of a bustling regional town centre with the tranquility of rural living. It boasts gourmet restaurants and cafes, boutique shopping, quality schools and sporting facilities. Surrounded by mountain gorges, waterfalls and national parks, Armidale’s natural beauty and distinct seasons make it an ideal place to live and thrive. To find out more, visit https://www.visitarmidale.com.au/experience

Enquiries and additional information

To discuss this role please contact Galia Urquhart, Director/Nominated Supervisor Yarm Gwanga Preschool and Early Education Centre, phone: (02) 6773 3173, email: [email protected].

Closing Date: Midnight, 14 September 2025

Reference No: 225133

Please visit www.une.edu.au/jobs-at-une for further information about this position and other career opportunities at UNE.

To Apply

Submit your application through www.une.edu.au/jobs-at-une and refer to vacancy ref 225133.

Your application should be comprised of:

Covering letter;

Responses to selection criteria;

Current CV.

Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity

UNE is committed to building a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, mature age workers and LGBTQIA+ people.

About Our Process

At UNE, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of this role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome. The successful candidate will be required to undertake pre-employment checks prior to commencing in this role as indicated in the position statement. Please visit our Privacy Statement to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.

National Police Check

If you are the successful candidate for this role you will be required to provide UNE with a National Police Check prior to your commencement. Please note that people with criminal records are NOT automatically barred from applying for this position (unless there is a particular requirement under law).