Early Childhood Associate Teacher

Join our Early Education team at the Institute for the Redesign of Learning (IRL) in beautiful South Pasadena , where your work will truly matter every single day.

This is more than a teaching position — it’s an opportunity to be part of an intentional, mission-driven organization dedicated to helping young children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

As an Associate Teacher , you will play a vital role in supporting the whole child — nurturing development across physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth ✨ — so that every student can build the foundation to become a confident, caring, and capable learner.

Salary Range: $17.90 – $21.27/hour *
*Pay is based on relevant experience, education, credentials/certifications, and bilingual language use (50% of the time).

⭐ Why Join IRL?

At IRL, we invest in our people just as much as we invest in our students

• Competitive total compensation package
• Exceptional training and mentorship program
• Intentional professional growth plans (we proudly promote from within!)
• Strong support from a dedicated Leadership Team
• Health, dental, and vision insurance + $25,000 life & AD&D coverage (if eligible)
• Generous paid time off
• Retirement plan and flexible spending accounts (medical & dependent care)

‍ What You’ll Do

• Support and implement engaging lesson plans for children
• Collaborate with teachers across classrooms to provide consistent student support
• Work closely with students, transitioning quickly to meet individual needs
• Maintain safe, clean, and organized learning and play environments
• Create and manage student portfolios to document progress and growth ✍️
• Build strong relationships with families through daily communication (in person, phone, email)

✅ Minimum Qualifications

• 12 Early Childhood Education units from an accredited college/university
• 3 Infant/Toddler units 
• Ability to pass a job-related health screening
• Access to a mobile phone and basic internet
• Proof of required immunizations (TB Test, MMR, DTap)
• Clearance through FBI, DOJ, and CCL background checks

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This role is active and hands-on in a dynamic school environment. Employees may experience moderate-to-loud noise levels and occasional emotionally challenging situations. Physical requirements include standing, walking, bending, lifting classroom materials , and supporting student physical management as trained through PRO-ACT, CPI, or similar behavioral intervention systems ‍‍.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are passionate about early childhood education and want to grow your career in a supportive, mission-focused organization, we encourage you to apply today and help shape the future—one child at a time ✨

ABOUT IRL

The Institute for the Redesign of Learning (IRL) is a multi-service, community-based Special Education, mental health, job development, and training facility for special needs children, students, and adults. IRL began in 1974 when its founder, Nancy J. Lavelle, Ph.D., created the Almansor Education Center located in a church on Almansor Street in Alhambra, California. With the belief that every student has the ability to “take charge” of their own learning process, Dr. Lavelle established a unique environment and individualized curriculum and created appropriate support and enrichment services designed to turn student and client learning failures into learning successes. Now over forty years later, the Institute for the Redesign of Learning offers six programs designed to provide a continuum of care for individuals with Special Needs, ages infants through adults, serving children, students, and clients throughout the greater Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley communities.

The Institute for the Redesign of Learning is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in employment and personnel practices based on race, sex, age, handicap, national origin, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. Hiring, transferring, and promotion practices are performed without regard to the above-listed items.

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