Infant Lead Teacher - Nurturing Play-Based Classroom

Merritt Academy; Fairfax (VA); Hybrid; USD 38,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition reimbursement

Competitive pay

Health, dental and vision insurance

Vacation and sick leave

Retirement plan with employer matching

Discounted tuition rate for child(ren)

Job summary

Merritt Academy is seeking a warm, nurturing Lead Infant Teacher who loves working with babies and understands the importance of the first year of learning and development. You will create a safe, engaging classroom focused on play, language, movement, and responsive caregiving.

As the lead, you’ll guide a teaching team, maintain routines for feeding, diapering, and sleep, and partner with families to share meaningful moments from each day. Patience, positivity, and dependability are essential.

Qualifications

• High School diploma required with an AA in Early Childhood Education, or related field, CDA (or at least 12 college credits in Education)
• Bachelor's degree preferred
• Experience in education; early childhood experience required
• Ability to lift up to 45 pounds and work indoors or outdoors
• Must read, write, and communicate effectively in English
• Must pass pre-employment screenings

Responsibilities

• Lead and collaborate with teaching team to provide exceptional infant care
• Maintain consistent routines for feeding, diapering, and safe sleep
• Observe development and support individual progress
• Build partnerships with families and keep parents informed
• Ensure safety and classroom organization

Skills

Patience

Strong communication

Team collaboration

English literacy

Education

AA in Early Childhood Education

CDA or 12 college credits in Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

CPR/First Aid certification

Job description

Merritt Academy is seeking a warm, nurturing Lead Infant Teacher who loves working with babies and understands the importance of the first year of learning and development. You will create a safe, engaging classroom focused on play, language, movement, and responsive caregiving.

As the lead, you’ll guide a teaching team, maintain routines for feeding, diapering, and sleep, and partner with families to share meaningful moments from each day. Patience, positivity, and dependability are essential.