Lead Teacher ECE

Judah North Llc; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Competitive salary

Paid time off

Job summary

A leading educational organization in Chicago seeks a Lead Teacher responsible for developing a nurturing curriculum for young children. You will foster collaboration with families and mentor assistant teachers, ensuring compliance with educational standards. The ideal candidate holds a relevant bachelor's degree and PEL certification, with a minimum of 2 years’ experience. Join our inclusive team and make a difference in early childhood education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with 18 credit hours in ECE.
• PEL certification required and current CPR/First Aid certification.
• Minimum of 2 years of teaching experience with children ages birth to five.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement daily lesson plans aligned with early learning standards.
• Create a safe and stimulating classroom environment.
• Observe and document children’s developmental progress.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

PEL certification

Job description

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Competitive salary
• Paid time off

Overview

Reports To: Center Director / Education Coordinator
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly or Salary based on center policy)

The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating a developmentally appropriate curriculum for young children. This position ensures that each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth is supported in a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. The Lead Teacher provides mentorship to assistant teachers, collaborates with families, and upholds the standards and mission of the early learning program.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and implement daily lesson plans aligned with early learning standards and the program’s curriculum framework.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and stimulating classroom environment that promotes exploration, creativity, and independence.
• Observe, assess, and document children’s developmental progress through ongoing evaluation and recordkeeping.
• Adapt instruction to meet individual learning styles, needs, and developmental levels.
• Foster strong, positive relationships with children, families, and staff to build a sense of community and trust.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and maintain consistent communication regarding child development and classroom activities.
• Supervise, train, and mentor assistant teachers and classroom aides, modeling best practices in early childhood education.
• Ensure compliance with state licensing requirements, health and safety standards, and program quality guidelines (e.g., Head Start, NAEYC, QRIS).
• Manage daily classroom routines, transitions, and behavioral guidance using positive and respectful strategies.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, staff meetings, and program activities as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum of 18 credit hours in ECE.
• PEL (Professional Educator License) certification is required.
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification.
• Minimum of 2 years of classroom teaching experience with children ages birth to five.
• Strong understanding of child development, early learning standards, and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• Able to engage in active play, sit on the floor, and move quickly to respond to children’s needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants.