Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 43,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking passionate Infant/Toddler Lead Teachers for their Early Head Start program. This role involves creating engaging learning experiences for children aged 6 weeks to 3 years, ensuring a supportive and safe environment. You'll collaborate with families, implement programs for English Language Learners, and engage in professional development. With a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career growth, this position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in the community while fostering children's social and emotional development.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Retirement fund participation

Family YMCA membership

Employee discounts

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education required.
• 1-3 years of experience in early childhood settings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Create developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children.
• Supervise children and maintain a positive classroom environment.
• Conduct assessments and maintain documentation.

Skills

Classroom Management

Instructional Strategies

Child Development

Family Engagement

Assessment and Evaluation

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education

Level 4 Gateways Infant/Toddler Certification

Erikson Certification

Tools

Curriculum Software

Job description

Job Opening: Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is hiring full-time Infant/Toddler Lead Teachers for our Early Head Start program at various locations including Jeanne Kenney YMCA, Marshall YMCA, McCormick YMCA, and North Lawndale YMCA.

Pay Rate: starts at $43,888.00 annually

About the Role

The Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher provides effective instructional strategies, classroom management, assessment, evaluation, and research-based practices for children aged 6 weeks to 3 years. Responsibilities include creating developmentally appropriate learning experiences, supervising children, and ensuring a positive, supportive classroom environment that meets all regulatory standards.

Our Mission

The YMCA of Metro Chicago aims to strengthen community by connecting individuals to their potential, purpose, and each other through impactful programs for all ages and families. Our staff's dedication helps us achieve this mission, fostering a child-centered environment that promotes learning, character development, healthy living, and nurturing relationships.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees
• Participation in the Y's retirement fund
• Inclusive and equitable work environment
• Meaningful work contributing to community impact
• Family YMCA membership and employee discounts
• Career growth opportunities

Key Responsibilities

• Foster a positive, responsive, and secure environment for children’s social and emotional development
• Work with infants, toddlers, and twos applying best practices for safety and development
• Partner with families to encourage involvement and support cultural and social backgrounds
• Implement programs for English Language Learners supporting linguistic and cultural development
• Conduct home visits and parent conferences as required
• Maintain classroom routines and supervise children's needs promptly and effectively
• Engage children through play and age-appropriate activities
• Participate in professional development and support recruitment and retention efforts

Lesson Planning & Classroom Management

• Create engaging, explorative learning environments
• Develop lesson plans with clear goals and outcomes
• Collaborate with team members and communicate regularly
• Maintain classroom materials and sanitation standards

Assessments & Reports

• Use screening tools and observe children to monitor progress
• Complete assessments and maintain documentation
• Ensure confidentiality and timely reporting

Child Abuse Prevention

• Report hazards and suspicious behavior
• Follow policies for child safety and complete required training

Minimum & Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education with relevant coursework
• Level 4 Gateways Infant/Toddler Certification or Erikson Certification
• 1-3 years of experience in early childhood settings
• Ability to pass background checks and meet physical requirements
• Experience with curriculum and recordkeeping software preferred
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed

Additional qualifications include knowledge of licensing standards, ability to build rapport with families, and computer literacy.

Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be notified of their rights under federal employment laws.