Job Summary
We are seeking a passionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated Early Childhood Educator to join our team in a Title 5 early learning program. The ideal candidate will support the growth and development of young children through developmentally appropriate practices, engaging learning experiences, and positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
Depending on qualifications and permit level (Associate Teacher, Teacher, or Master Teacher), the selected candidate will assume responsibilities consistent with California Title 5 regulations while contributing to a collaborative, inclusive, and high-quality learning environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with the California Preschool Learning Foundations, California Infant/Toddler Learning and Development Foundations (as applicable), and program philosophy.
- Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that promotes children's cognitive, language, physical, social-emotional, and creative development.
- Observe, assess, and document children's progress using authentic assessment practices to inform individualized instruction and family engagement.
- Foster positive guidance and classroom management strategies that support children's social-emotional growth and self-regulation.
- Build respectful partnerships with families through regular communication, conferences, and opportunities for family involvement.
- Collaborate with teaching staff, site leadership, and multidisciplinary teams to support children's developmental and educational needs.
- Support inclusion and implement appropriate accommodations and early intervention strategies for children with identified or suspected developmental delays.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including lesson plans, child assessments, attendance, and other records required under Title 5 and licensing regulations.
- Ensure compliance with California Department of Education Title 5 regulations, Community Care Licensing (Title 22), health and safety standards, and program policies.
- Participate in staff meetings, professional development, coaching, and ongoing training to support continuous program improvement.
- Model professionalism, ethical conduct, and culturally responsive practices in all interactions with children, families, and colleagues.
- Perform additional duties appropriate to the employee's Child Development Permit level, including mentoring, curriculum leadership, or supervision of Associate Teachers, Assistant Teachers, aides, or student teachers when applicable.
Qualifications and Experience
- Experience working with young children in a licensed early childhood education setting, including preschool, infant/toddler, or center-based care, is preferred.
- Knowledge of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
- Experience planning and implementing curriculum that supports all developmental domains.
- Strong classroom management and positive guidance skills.
- Experience conducting child observations and assessments to support individualized learning.
- Ability to work collaboratively with families, educators, and community partners.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Bilingual abilities are valued but not required.
Minimum Requirements
- Meets California Title 5 educational requirements with required Early Childhood Education/Child Development coursework.
- Holds or is eligible to obtain a valid California Child Development Permit at the Associate Teacher, Teacher, or Master Teacher level (Teacher or Master Teacher preferred).
- Meets Title 5 Core Class requirements and all applicable California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) permit requirements.
- Ability to successfully pass or provide clearance for:
- DOJ/FBI Live Scan fingerprint clearance (Title 22 and Title 5 compliant)
- Health screening, including current TB clearance
- Pediatric CPR and First Aid Certification
- Mandated Reporter Training Certification
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications
- California Child Development Teacher Permit or Master Teacher Permit.
- Experience in a California State Preschool Program (CSPP), Head Start, or other Title 5-funded early education program.
- Experience mentoring or supervising classroom staff or practicum students (Master Teacher level).
- Knowledge of Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP), CLASS, ECERS, and Continuous Quality Improvement practices.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish or another language reflective of the community served.
Pay: $22.00 - $23.50 per hour
License/Certification
- Associate Teacher or Master Teacher Permit (Required)
Work Location: In person
