Substitute

Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC); Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible Work Schedule

Paid Training Opportunities

Family-Friendly Work Environment

Positive Team Culture

Job summary

Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) Head Start is seeking a Substitute to support classroom operations at Springfield sites. This flexible, as‑needed role works with teachers to maintain routines and provide a safe, engaging learning environment.

Starting pay is $15.00 per hour. The position requires a high school diploma or GED and experience with young children; preferred is an early childhood degree and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Qualifications

• Must have High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience working with young children.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Support classroom activities and daily routines.
• Create a safe, positive, and welcoming learning environment.
• Assist with supervision and engagement of children.
• Collaborate with teachers and classroom staff.
• Maintain a professional and respectful classroom environment.
• Follow lesson plans and classroom procedures provided by teaching staff.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Effective communication

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Child engagement

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Early Childhood degree

Transcript required

Job description

About Us

Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing poverty and strengthening communities by providing services and support to individuals and families throughout the Ozarks.

Position Information
Position Title: Substitute
Department: Head Start
Location: All Springfield Sites
Reports To: Center Supervisor
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employment Type: Substitute / As Needed

Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing poverty and strengthening communities by providing services and support to individuals and families throughout the Ozarks.
OACAC Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, family support, and disability services to children ages birth through five and their families. Our team is committed to preparing children for success in school and life while building strong partnerships with families and the communities we serve.

Position Overview

OACAC Head Start is seeking motivated team members for the position of substitute. This flexible, as‑needed role supports classroom operations by creating a warm, welcoming learning environment where children can thrive. Substitute Teachers work alongside classroom staff to provide quality care, maintain daily routines, and ensure a safe and engaging experience for every child.

If you enjoy working with young children, value teamwork, and are looking for a flexible schedule, we'd love to have you join our team.

Work Schedule

• Monday–Friday, as needed
• Flexible schedule; hours vary based on center needs

Key Responsibilities

• Support classroom activities and daily routines
• Create a safe, positive, and welcoming learning environment
• Assist with supervision and engagement of children
• Collaborate with teachers and classroom staff
• Maintain a professional and respectful classroom environment
• Follow lesson plans and classroom procedures provided by teaching staff
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• Experience working with young children
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Early Childhood degree or related field
• Copy of transcript required with application

Required Skills And Abilities

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers
• Ability to work collaboratively with classroom staff
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to adapt to different classroom environments
• Commitment to providing a positive and supportive learning experience

Compensation

• Starting pay: $15.00 per hour

Benefits

• Flexible Work Schedule
• Paid Training Opportunities
• Family-Friendly Work Environment
• Positive Team Culture

Additional Information

Application Deadline: Friday August 21, 2026

Learn more about OACAC and the Head Start Program at www.oac.ac.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Valid driver's license
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring
• Family Care Safety Registry (FCSR) background check

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected status.