Early Head Start Teacher

Pathfinder; Huntington (IN); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellness Platform Incentives

Financial Wellness Platform

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic

Exclusive Discounts - Verizon Wireless

Exclusive Discounts - YMCA

Job summary

Pathfinder is hiring an Early Head Start Teacher in Huntington, IN to nurture infants and toddlers through play-based, culturally responsive learning in a supportive classroom.

You’ll design weekly plans aligned with Early Learning Outcomes, conduct home visits, and partner with families to set goals, while following Indiana licensing and Head Start standards. This role offers full-time hours, Monday–Friday, with ongoing professional growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Warm, approachable communication with families and team
• Experience applying early childhood development principles
• Commitment to equity and inclusive practices

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement weekly lesson plans aligned with assessment data and Early Learning Outcomes Framework
• Create culturally responsive, hands-on activities supporting all learning domains
• Use developmentally appropriate practices to foster emotional growth
• Complete developmental screenings within 45 days of enrollment and monitor progress
• Engage families through home visits, conferences, and goal setting
• Follow Indiana licensing guidelines and Head Start standards
• Collaborate with co-teachers and participate in trainings (20+ hours annually)
• Promote school readiness and a safe, nurturing classroom environment

Skills

Warm communication

Time management

Team-first attitude

Understanding of child development

Confidentiality & professionalism

Education

Infant/toddler CDA or 120 hours

Associate or Bachelors in ECE or related field

Job description

Job Type

Full-time

Company: Pathfinder

Job Title: Early Head Start Teacher

Category: Childcare & Education

Location: Huntington, IN

Job Type: Full-Time

Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30a-4:30p (40/hrs.)

Starting Pay: $17.15-$22.61/hr. (based on level of education)

Make a Difference from the Start.

As an Early Head Start Teacher at Pathfinder, you’ll help nurture young minds through purposeful, play-based learning. This role supports children ages 0–3 during critical years of development by building strong relationships, honoring family culture, and creating a safe, enriching classroom environment.

Learning & Curriculum Planning

• Develop and implement weekly lesson plans aligned with assessment data and the Early Learning Outcomes Framework
• Create culturally responsive, hands-on activities that support development in all learning domains
• Use Conscious Discipline and developmentally appropriate practices to foster emotional growth

Child Development Support

• Complete and document developmental screenings within 45 days of enrollment and on an ongoing basis
• Track child progress and partner with families to set individualized learning goals
• Ensure daily routines promote exploration, independence, and safety

Family Engagement & Communication

• Conduct regular home visits and parent-teacher conferences
• Support parent involvement through shared goal setting and nutrition assessments
• Communicate regularly and respectfully with families from diverse backgrounds

Compliance & Classroom Environment

• Follow and implement all Indiana Child Care Licensing Guidelines and Head Start Performance Standards
• Maintain a safe, predictable classroom in line with NAEYC and Paths to Quality requirements
• Document attendance, child progress, and safety checks according to policy

Team Collaboration & Professional Growth

• Work positively with co-teachers and staff to ensure a supportive team environment
• Attend regular staff meetings and participate in required training (20+ hours annually)
• Actively contribute to continuous improvement and staff development efforts

Key Responsibilities

The Impact You’ll Make as an Early Head Start Teacher:

• Promote school readiness and lifelong learning for infants and toddlers
• Build trust with families as a supportive educational partner
• Create a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive
• Advance Pathfinder’s mission to empower people to live their best lives from the very beginning

Skills & Competencies

What You Bring to the Role

• Warm, approachable communication style with strong relationship-building skills
• Effective time management, flexibility, and a team-first attitude
• Understanding of child development and commitment to equity
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical standards

What To Expect In This Role

• Fast-paced, flexible classroom environment with frequent transitions
• 40-hour workweek with occasional home visits outside standard hours
• Daily interaction with children, families, and team members
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within Pathfinder
• Required participation in staff meetings, trainings, and community events

Pathfinder’s mission is to strengthen communities by enabling people with disabilities or economic challenges to achieve autonomy, inclusion, and stability.

Benefits & Pathfinder Perks – We Care About YOU!

Competitive Benefits Package (if Applicable)

• Competitive Pay & Paid Training – Earn while you learn with comprehensive training.
• Paid Time Off & Holidays – Maintain a healthy work-life balance with PTO and paid holidays.
• Comprehensive Insurance Coverage – Medical, Dental, and Vision plans to support your well-being.
• Employer-Paid Coverage – Enjoy free Basic Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD).
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match – Plan for your future with a generous retirement savings plan and employer contributions.
• Tuition Reimbursement – Invest in your future with financial assistance for continued education.
• Professional Development & Training – Enhance your skills and career through learning opportunities.
• Person-Centered Thinking Training – Gain valuable insights into individualized care and service.

Pathfinder Perks

• Wellness Platform Incentives – Earn rewards for prioritizing your health and well-being.
• Financial Wellness Platform – Access earned wages before payday for added financial flexibility.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support sessions for employees and their immediate household members.
• Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic – Providing childcare for children in the community with minor illnesses.
• Exclusive Discounts – Save with special offers, including:
• Verizon Wireless Discount – Stay connected for less.
• YMCA Discount – Enjoy reduced membership rates for fitness and wellness.

Pathfinder Values: People First – Integrity - Contribution – Growth – Empowerment

Requirements

Preferred Minimum Qualifications

• A minimum of an infant/toddler CDA or 120 hours specific to infant/toddler development. An associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field.
• Staff hired with a degree in a related field have four months to complete CDA coursework equivalent to 120 hours of infant/toddler-specific training.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Basic language, written, and computer skills necessary for communication and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to support people with disabilities.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule if needed.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to speak, hear, and read the English language.
• Be able to run, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, and climb stairs
• Be able to lift 50 pounds and push/pull against potential resistance.
• Be able to implement CPR and First Aid when needed.