Sign up to access all features of our service.
  • Job search
  • Favorites
  • Create a CV
    New
  • Salaries
  • Subscriptions

Lead Childcare Teacher

$40k - $50k

Guidepost Montessori

Lead Childcare Teacher

Shape a child's very first learning experiences. At Guidepost Montessori, our Lead Infant and Toddler Teachers create calm, nurturing environments where children are respected as capable individuals from the very beginning.

If you're passionate about early childhood development and want to lead a thoughtfully designed classroom that supports independence, movement, and discovery, we'd love to meet you.

As a Lead Infant or Toddler Teacher (Guide), you'll lead a mixed-age classroom (ages 0–3) in a Montessori environment intentionally designed to support each child's natural development.

In Montessori, the environment and the guide work together to nurture independence, curiosity, and confidence. You'll thoughtfully prepare the classroom, observe each child closely, and provide individualized care that honors their unique rhythms and needs.

Most importantly, you'll help infants develop trust in themselves and the world around them laying the foundation for lifelong learning.

What You'll Do

  • Observe each child to understand and support their physical, emotional, and cognitive development
  • Respect and follow each child's natural rhythms for sleeping, eating, and toileting
  • Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly environment that fosters trust, movement, and exploration
  • Support independence by encouraging children to participate in care activities
  • Build warm, meaningful relationships with children and families
  • Partner closely with parents to support each child's growth and development
  • Lead and collaborate with classroom team members to create a strong, respectful community

The Montessori Prepared Environment

Every Guidepost infant and toddler classroom is fully equipped with high-quality Montessori materials and thoughtfully designed to support movement, exploration, and independence.

Our infant environments include:

  • Open floor space for movement and exploration
  • Child-sized furniture and materials
  • Curriculum that supports independence in feeding, dressing, and toileting
  • Scientifically designed materials for fine and gross motor development
  • Natural elements like real plants, cozy rugs, and abundant natural light
  • Beautiful, breakable materials made from wood and metal rather than plastic
  • Opportunities for climbing, crawling, and discovery without restrictive devices

What We're Looking For

  • Interest in pursuing fully sponsored Montessori certification through our Prepared Montessorian Institute, or prior Montessori diploma
  • Experience working with children ages 0–3 in a daycare, preschool, or early childcare setting
  • Alignment with child-led educational philosophies (Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or similar)
  • Required ECE or Child Development credits
  • Bachelor's degree (Child related field)

What We Offer

  • Sponsored Montessori diploma training and ongoing professional development
  • Competitive salary: $40,000 - $50,000 depending on experience and education
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • 75% tuition discount for up to two children at any Guidepost school
  • A collaborative community of peers and mentors
  • Clear pathways for career growth and leadership advancement

About Guidepost Montessori

Guidepost Montessori is a growing network of over 100 schools across the U.S. and Asia, serving children from 3 months to 6 years old in our Nido, Toddler, and Children's House programs.

We believe children are capable and we design environments that empower them to explore, grow, and flourish. Our mission is to transform education by nurturing independence, joy, and lifelong learning.

If you're passionate about early childhood, excited to partner with families, and ready to lead with purpose, we'd love to welcome you to our community.

Apply today and help shape the earliest years of learning.

Guidepost Global Education and Guidepost Montessori are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO). We will not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, color, creed, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, alienage or citizenship, disability, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under applicable federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. Our leadership is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy. When requested, we are committed to reasonably accommodate employees and applicants with disabilities or special needs that may require an accommodation.

Vacancy posted 3 days ago
Similar jobs that could be interesting for youBased on the Lead Childcare Teacher in Naperville, IL vacancy
  • $40k - $50k

     ...Inspire curiosity. Build independence. Shape a lifelong love of learning. At Guidepost Montessori, our Lead Children's House Guides empower children ages 3-6 to grow into confident, capable learners through thoughtfully prepared environments and respectful, individualized... 
    Suggested
    Local area

    Guidepost Montessori

    Naperville, IL
    4 days ago
  • $18.75 - $23.1 per hour

    Lead Teacher (Lead Infant & Preschool) - The Gardner School of Naperville North What You’ll Do: Lead and inspire your classroom with creativity...  ...vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development... 
    Suggested
    Hourly pay

    TGS Holdings, LLC

    Naperville, IL
    3 days ago
  • TGS Holdings, LLC is hiring a Lead Teacher at The Gardner School of Naperville South. In this role, you will inspire your classroom and mentor assistant teachers. Ideal candidates have a CDA or Associate's degree and a passion for early childhood education. The position... 
    Suggested

    TGS Holdings, LLC

    Naperville, IL
    3 days ago
  • $43.89k

    Ymca-of-Metropolitan-Chicag is seeking a dedicated Lead Teacher in Naperville, IL, to create a nurturing environment for preschool children aged 2-5. The role involves implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans and managing classroom activities while ensuring... 
    Suggested

    Ymca-of-Metropolitan-Chicag

    Naperville, IL
    1 day ago
  • $18.7 - $23.1 per hour

     ...customer focus to the business. We're Hiring! Join our team as a Lead Teacher at The Gardner School of Naperville South! We have an...  ...vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development... 
    Suggested
    Hourly pay

    TGS Holdings, LLC

    Naperville, IL
    3 days ago
  • $18.7 - $23.1 per hour

    The Gardner School in Naperville, Illinois, is looking for a Lead Teacher to join our passionate team. Candidates should have a CDA or Associate's degree and at least one year of early childhood education experience. This full-time position offers competitive pay ranging... 
    Hourly pay
    Full time

    The Gardner School

    Naperville, IL
    3 days ago
  • $40k - $50k

    Inspire curiosity. Build independence. Shape a lifelong love of learning. At Guidepost Montessori, our Lead Children’s House Guides empower children ages 3-6 to grow into confident, capable learners through thoughtfully prepared environments and respectful, individualized... 

    Guidepost Montessori

    Naperville, IL
    3 days ago
  • $19.38 - $24.84 per hour

    KinderCare Learning Companies in Naperville, Illinois is seeking a dedicated Early Childhood Education Teacher. You will lead and mentor less experienced teachers, implement KinderCare's curriculum, and create a nurturing environment to support children's learning. Ideal... 
    Hourly pay

    KinderCare Learning Companies

    Naperville, IL
    1 day ago
  • $18.75 - $23.1 per hour

    TGS Holdings, LLC is looking for a Lead Teacher at The Gardner School of Naperville North. This role involves leading a classroom with...  ...School offers comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, childcare discounts, and opportunities for professional development.... 
    Hourly pay

    TGS Holdings, LLC

    Naperville, IL
    3 days ago
  • $19.38 - $24.84 per hour

    KinderCare Learning Companies in Naperville, Illinois, is seeking dedicated teachers to inspire and guide young learners. Your role involves leading and mentoring less experienced teachers, implementing a curriculum tailored to children's needs, and creating a safe and... 
    Hourly pay

    KinderCare Learning Companies

    Naperville, IL
    4 days ago
  • $18.7 - $23.1 per hour

    The Gardner School in Warrenville is hiring a Lead Teacher. This role involves leading a preschool classroom with creativity and care, mentoring assistant teachers, and engaging students through developmentally appropriate lessons. We offer competitive pay between $18.... 
    Hourly pay

    The Gardner School

    Warrenville, IL
    2 days ago
  • $19.38 - $24.84 per hour

     ...Illinois is seeking passionate educators to foster children's learning and development. This role involves coaching less experienced teachers, creating engaging learning environments, and partnering with parents. The ideal candidate will have a CDA Credential or... 
    Hourly pay

    KinderCare Learning Companies

    Woodridge, IL
    17 hours ago
  • A leading preschool organization in Warrenville, IL is seeking a Lead Infant & Toddler Teacher. This position involves leading a classroom with creativity, mentoring staff, and fostering relationships with families. Candidates must have a CDA or an Associate's degree in... 

    The Gardner School

    Warrenville, IL
    3 days ago
  • $18.7 - $23.1 per hour

    TGS Holdings, LLC is looking for a passionate Lead Teacher to join The Gardner School of Naperville. You will lead a classroom while mentoring staff, inspiring children, and fostering a positive environment. A CDA or Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education is required... 
    Hourly pay

    TGS Holdings, LLC

    Warrenville, IL
    3 days ago
  • $19.38 - $24.84 per hour

    KinderCare Learning Companies in Naperville, Illinois, is seeking an early childhood educator to lead and mentor teachers, implement curriculum, and foster a nurturing environment for children. Ideal candidates will possess outstanding customer service skills, a CDA Credential... 
    Hourly pay

    KinderCare Learning Companies

    Naperville, IL
    1 day ago
  • $43.89k

     ...Preschool Lead Teacher Indian Boundary YMCA is now hiring a full-time Preschool Teacher! As a Lead Teacher you are responsible for providing a safe and supportive classroom environment for preschool children ages 2-5 while preparing for kindergarten readiness. Using... 
    Full time
    Immediate start
    Flexible hours

    YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

    Downers Grove, IL
    4 days ago
  • $18.29 - $23 per hour

     ...Company Overview We are hiring a Preschool Lead Teacher to join our team of dedicated educators. If you’re passionate about early childhood development and have experience in childcare, daycare, or preschool education, we’d love to meet you. Why Join Us? We’re a... 
    Hourly pay
    Full time
    Shift work

    Cadence Education

    Montgomery, IL
    2 days ago
  • $55k - $57k

     ...Wheaton, IL 60187, USA Description We are now hiring for a full-time Teacher 0-3 to join our Addison Children's Center! SALARY: The average...  .... Under the general supervision of the Site Supervisor. DuPage Lead Teachers (working with children ages 3-5) work a 43-week... 
    Full time
    Immediate start
    Flexible hours
    Weekend work
    Afternoon shift

    Metropolitan Family Services

    Wheaton, IL
    4 days ago
  •  ...Lead Montessori Primary Guide (Ages 3–6) Diamante Montessori School – Glen Ellyn, IL Start Date: August 2026 | Part-Time or Full-Time...  ...thoughtful, engaging classroom environment in collaboration with a co‑teacher Communicate regularly with families regarding student... 
    Full time
    Part time
    Summer holiday

    American Montessori Society

    Glen Ellyn, IL
    2 days ago
  •  ...early childhood education field and become a valued member of our team at BrightPath Kids ! As a proud member of the Busy Bees global childcare community, we offer exceptional opportunities for your career to thrive. Join our diverse community of over 5,000 dedicated... 
    Full time

    Hirebridge

    South Elgin, IL
    3 days ago
  • $20 - $21 per hour

    The Learning Tree of Elgin West is a licensed childcare center seeking Lead Teachers to support our Young Preschool classroom. Qualifications To be qualified for this position, we require a CDA or at least 6 ECE college level credits, and the ability to pass all background... 
    Full time
    Local area
    Shift work

    Premier Early Childhood Education Partners

    Elgin, IL
    1 day ago
  • $19 - $22 per hour

    Village Children's Academy is a licensed childcare center seeking Lead Teachers to support the following age groups: Toddler/2s. To be qualified for this position, we require a CDA or at least 6 ECE college level credits, and the ability to pass all background checks.... 
    Full time
    Local area
    Monday to Friday
    Shift work

    Village Children's Academy

    Hinsdale, IL
    7 hours ago
  • A childcare service provider in Frankfort, Illinois, seeks passionate individuals to nurture and inspire preschoolers. The role demands creativity in developing learning experiences and maintaining classroom management. With a focus on employee well-being, we provide flexible... 
    Immediate start
    Flexible hours

    Learning Care Group

    Frankfort, IL
    4 days ago
  • A childcare franchise located in Elgin, Illinois, is seeking a passionate Lead Teacher to create a positive learning environment for children. The role involves implementing a proprietary curriculum, maintaining safety standards, and communicating with parents. Candidates... 

    The Learning Experience - Elgin

    Elgin, IL
    17 hours ago
  • $19.38 - $24.84 per hour

     ...Illinois is looking for a dedicated Early Childhood Education Teacher. This role involves leading and mentoring staff while implementing curriculum...  ...comes with comprehensive benefits including discounted childcare, health coverage, and wellness programs. Join us to make... 
    Hourly pay

    KinderCare Learning Companies

    South Elgin, IL
    1 day ago
  • Learning Care Group is hiring a Lead Teacher to guide preschool learning, mentor other Teachers, and ensure a safe, engaging classroom....  ...supportive team, flexible schedules with no nights or weekends, a 50% childcare discount, and immediate benefits. Join us to help children... 
    Immediate start
    Flexible hours
    Weekend work

    Learning Care Group

    Plainfield, IL
    7 hours ago
  • $19.25 per hour

    A childcare organization in Glen Ellyn is seeking a Lead Teacher who will create engaging educational experiences for preschool children. The role includes mentoring fellow teachers, managing classroom activities, and building relationships with families. Candidates should... 
    Hourly pay
    Flexible hours

    Learning Care Group

    Glen Ellyn, IL
    4 days ago
  • A leading childcare center in Lockport, IL is seeking a passionate Lead Infant Teacher to create a nurturing environment for young learners. Responsibilities include implementing engaging lesson plans, maintaining classroom safety, and collaborating with families and staff... 

    The Goddard School

    Lockport, IL
    3 days ago
  • A childcare institution in Plainfield, IL is seeking dedicated lead teachers to coordinate daily operations and provide quality educational experiences for children. The role involves planning and evaluating activities, engaging with children and parents, and developing... 

    The Goddard School of Plainfield, IL

    Plainfield, IL
    3 days ago
  • Learning Care Group in Plainfield, Illinois, is hiring a passionate Lead Teacher to create engaging learning experiences for preschool...  ...leading classrooms, we invite you to apply! Enjoy benefits like a childcare discount, 401(k) company match, and training opportunities.... 
    Full time
    Immediate start
    Flexible hours

    Learning Care Group

    Plainfield, IL
    1 day ago

Do you want to receive more vacancies?

Subscribe and receive similar vacancies to Lead Childcare Teacher. Be the first to apply!